Riverina Merino 2008

It’s good to know there are dedicated bright young people like Jo Kuch looking after the future of the Riverina Merino industry. Jo, winner of The Sandy Robertson Young Riverina Ambassador Award for 2002, has just completed the Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program that forms a part of the prestigious Riverina Ambassador prize. The course is recognised nationwide for further developing the leadership potential of its students.

Jo, who works at Pooginook Merino Stud in Jerilderie, won The Sandy Robertson Young Riverina Ambassador Award at the 2002 Riverina Stud Merino Field Day held at Shear Outback, The Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame, last September.

The Marcus Oldham Course is held each July and has a well-deserved reputation for developing the confidence, ambition, enthusiasm and overall ability of all of the students who attend. Students participate in exercises designed to develop their skills in public speaking, presentation, team building, conflict resolution, and high-level negotiation. The course is held primarily at the college facilities in Geelong, although interesting field trips and guest lectures form an important part of the curriculum. Skills are also developed in related management fields including public relations, communications and marketing. Graduates place a high value not only on the curriculum, lecturers and exercises, but also on the interaction with other dedicated individuals who attend including many from financial institutions, rural enterprises, agriculture, research and business.

The Riverina Stud Merino Field Days Association considers that the nurturing and support of young industry members is of paramount importance and nominations are now open for The Sandy Robertson Young Riverina Ambassador Award for 2003. The Award brings not only attendance at the Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program and a prestigious commemorative plate, but a lifelong recognition of achievement within the wool industry.

After nominations have been received by the Association, finalists are selected and each attends an interview before the judging panel at the 2003 Riverina Stud Merino Field Day, - to be held on Friday September 12 at Shear Outback in Hay. Participants under 29 who encompass the qualities of leadership, ability, enthusiasm and dedication to their career in the wool industry, and who work as jackaroos, jillaroos or junior managers or other person working in the wool or merino industry in agriculture and production, or an agri-business associated industry in the greater Riverina region, are eligible to enter and must be nominated by another party. The Award commemorates the life and achievements of young Riverina man, Sandy Robertson, after his tragic and untimely death in 1984.

Nominations for The Sandy Robertson Young Riverina Ambassador Award, as well entries in the Wesfarmers Landmark Pennefather Award for the Best Junior Judge under 23 years, are now open. Please contact the Executive Secretary for nomination forms and more information on (02) 6959 1180 or email: wendy@riverinamerino.com.au General Field Day enquiries are welcome at any time, and the Riverina Stud Merino Field Day Association offers a free bi-annual newsletter, as well as a comprehensive website.