LHPA helping develop tomorrow’s rural leaders
The New England Livestock Health and Pest Authority is seeking participants to take part in a farm leadership program consisting of three fully funded workshops which aim to train and support 18-25 year old farmers in livestock health issues and rural leadership.
After securing funding for the project, New England LHPA has taken on the role of facilitator, bringing together partner organisations for the benefit of landholders in the district. LHPA staff hope to increase involvement of local producers in livestock health through the establishment of a network of engaged and enthusiastic young farmers.
New England LHPA District Veterinarian, Andrew Biddle believes this project will develop better linkages with tomorrow’s leaders.
"We hope to develop and improve leadership and involvement in livestock health in the future by establishing a network of next generation farmers," Mr Biddle said.
"We aim to provide tomorrow’s farming leaders with the tools to identify and assess risk, develop and implement farm management plans, devise and evaluate strategies for farm biosecurity and also negotiate and influence future agriculture policies.
"The LHPA, and particularly the livestock health team, is uniquely placed to coordinate the program and connect the expertise in the region with future farmers," Mr Biddle said.
Workshop 1 will focus on the individual (leadership, OH&S, mental health); workshop 2 will focus on the farm gate (improving biosecurity and farm productivity) and workshop 3 will cover the livestock industry. The workshops are proposed for July, August and September. It is anticipated that at the completion of the formal program, participants will be encouraged by the LHPA to contribute as members of a regional advisory and reference group to support policy development and develop leadership opportunities in the district.
This project is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under Australia’s Farming Future.
New England LHPA requires 25 participants for this group. Applications close the 28th May 2010. Anyone interested in being involved should contact Andrew Biddle, 0427 825 725.
Media contact: Helen Gosper 0428 465 378