18-year-old Lachlan Kelly has grown up on a farm in Kilmore East, and has been passionate about farming from the get-go.
“I studied agriculture in high school,” Lachlan said.
“I actually did agriculture accelerated, so I finished Year 12 Agriculture in Year 11.
“As soon as I started thinking about university, I always knew I was going to study agriculture.”
Lachlan embarked on further study just a few weeks ago, and now finds himself tackling a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga.
He hopes to develop his understanding of innovative practices and explore different agricultural industries during his time at university.
He then has the intention of bringing his newfound knowledge back to the family farm in order to enhance productivity and sustainability.
While Lachlan’s ties to farming run deep, he has also been inspired to undertake further study as a result of the industry’s current state.
“I know it’s a dying industry and there’s not enough young people going into it, so I suppose that’s a motivating opportunity,” Lachlan said.
For Lachlan, this scholarship acts as a weight off his shoulders.
“I’m so pleased and thankful that I was chosen for the scholarship,” Lachlan said.
“Being an 18-year-old, and fresh out of high school, I’m not made of money.
“It’s very reassuring to know that I’m more financially stable.”
Lachlan enjoys volunteering and is a member of the Kilmore Agricultural and Pastoral Society.
He has been involved with the Kilmore show, with Landcare and in tree planting.
It is his commitment to contributing to the local farming industry that has seen him achieve this scholarship.
“This unique scholarship aims to encourage young people of our area to pursue a career in agriculture or some field that benefits the rural community,” John Dalziel of the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society said.
“The Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society wishes Lachlan well and is very happy to award him with this $5000 scholarship.”
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