A partnership between Angus Australia and the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation is set to to give two Charles Sturt University (CSU) students an insight into beef genetics research.
CSU Bachelor of Veterinary Science student, Georgia Howell, and Bachelor of Agricultural Science student, Jack Schultz, have been awarded $5000 internships, co-funded by the organisations.
CSU lecturer, Michael Campbell, said the internship program provided an opportunity for the students to gain valuable experience and was an example of the value of partnerships to deliver industry relevant research.
As part of the internship, Ms Howell and Mr Shultz will be involved with the Angus Sire Benchmarking Project which aims to evaluate the current tools used by Angus breeders to select bulls.
Angus Australia marketing and communications manager, Diana Wood, Armidale, said a large number of Angus Youth members and children of Angus Australia members both study and have completed studies at CSU.
“To be able to offer students the opportunity to gain work experience at Angus Australia is an exciting prospect. The students will gain invaluable insight into the research and development programs Angus Australia is conducting, and how the data from these programs is being utilised within the industry to make improvements to beef production,” Ms Wood said.
Originally from Ambrose near Rockhampton, Mr Schultz said he hopep to gain a better understanding of genetics and a greater insight of cattle from a scientific point of view.
“The internship will give me the chance to better understand the theory behind genetics research and the practical experience of seeing how it’s implemented in the field,” Mr Schultz said.
Taking part in the organisation and facilitation of the Thomas Foods International Angus Youth Roundup, the students were introduced to the Angus community and the opportunities offered to its members.
Ms Howell from Amphitheatre, Victoria, said the internship gives insight into the work of Angus Australia to promote the breed.
“As a breed society they have done a fantastic job promoting and growing their breed within Australia. I’m interested to learn about the work that goes on behind the scenes to enable this growth,” Ms Howell said.
"The breadth and quality of opportunities that Angus Australia provide their youth members with is remarkable.”
Learning much in a short time, the students learnt about the showing of cattle, new technologies, important aspects of cattle health and husbandry and the drive and dedication of Angus members to improve genetically.
Ms Howell said the internship will provide an opportunity to visualise where the Australian beef industry is headed in terms of genetic assessment, and how the use of genetics can be better implemented by producers.
Both students thank the Graham Centre and Angus Australia for the amazing opportunity they have offered with this internship. They would also like to thank the people they have met at the Roundup and along the way that are always happy to chat and share experiences.
