In its second year, the AgVet Taster Day was held at the Australian Agricultural Centre (AAC) in partnership with the Crookwell Vet Hospital and Narrambulla Investments. This unique program is for high school students to enhance their understanding of the agriculture industry and its real-world applications through demonstrations in veterinary science and the meat industry. 

This year's program was generously funded by Nutrien Ag Solutions in partnership with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) to support ongoing student engagement in agriculture careers and build the organisational capacity of the AAC through supporting training activities. 

With a cohort of 30 students from Frensham School in the Southern Highlands, Tumut High School in the Snowy Valleys, and Mulwaree High School in the Southern Tablelands, at least three students were interested in pursuing a career as a large animal veterinarian after the course. 

"This program nurtures future talent in the industry," said Jo Marshall, CEO and co-founder of the AAC. It aims to not only educate but also inspire young minds to consider careers in the agricultural sector and experience a variety of careers other than that of the traditional farmer." 

"This year's program couldn't be held without the partnering organisations committed to promoting education and empowering the next generation of professionals," Jo said. 

Through a comprehensive curriculum designed by the AAC, students engage in hands-on activities and immersive experiences. Students see a qualified vet complete an autopsy on a sheep, examining parts of the digestive, circulatory, and reproductive systems. Discuss the function of each system and how management practices can affect it. Learn about pests and diseases including their preventations and cures. Then, they observe a qualified butcher break down a carcass learning about meat marketing, including marbling, colour, fat, weight, and what meat cuts are used for. 

This program meets the school's syllabus outcomes in HSC and preliminary science and agriculture, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and relevant educational experience. They benefit from firsthand experience and practical demonstrations by professionals working in the industry, including Dr Will Lucas from Crookwell Vet Hospital. 

With plans for further expansion and engagement in the coming years, the AAC is dedicated to enhancing the program's impact and reaching a wider audience of students interested in pursuing careers in veterinary science and agriculture. This ongoing initiative underscores the significance of industry-training partnerships in cultivating talent and driving innovation. 

The Ag Vet Taster Day program will be held again in 2025. The centre is currently seeking sponsors for next year’s program. Over two years, data from the Career Taster Days shows that 30-50% of students are interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, with 10% interested in the demonstrated career. 

For more information, visit www.australianagriculturalcentre.org