THE search is on to uncover talented young individuals in the livestock industries, with applications for the 2022 Zanda McDonald Award opening on Sunday.

The trans-Tasman award provides an opportunity for young Aussies and Kiwis working in agriculture to fast track their careers and personal development, through an impressive prize package that puts the winner in the passenger seat with some of the biggest and best agriculture operators across Australasia.

Earlier this year, Australian Rozzie O’Reilly (pictured), operations manager at LAMBPRO, and New Zealander Sam Vivian-Greer were crowned joint winners of the 2021 Award.

Now in its eighth year, the annual award recognises those who are passionate about agriculture, wanting to make a difference in their sector, and looking to take their career to the next level.

The prize includes a personalised mentoring trip in Australia and New Zealand, $10,000 worth of tailored education or training, media coaching and a wide range of opportunities that help advance their future in the ag sector.

Some travel for the mentoring trip takes place in a privately chartered Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, enabling the winner to reach diverse and remote agricultural operations on either side of the Tasman. The prize isn’t just reserved for the winner, with all finalists having access to mentoring opportunities, media training and other benefits.

Chairman of the Zanda McDonald Award, Richard Rains, says the award provides young agricultural leaders with a clear path to help advance their careers and personal development, thanks to a prize package that is completely tailored to their needs.

“We know this award has a huge impact on the lives of our winners and finalists, by creating opportunities for them to spend time with some of the best in the business where they can learn, network, experience and grow,” Mr Rains said.

“It’s true what they say, you can see further when you’re standing on the shoulders of a mentor. We’ve met some really inspiring young people since the award began, and strongly encourage anyone who’s considering applying to throw their hat in the ring,” he said.

Earlier this year, Australian Rozzie O’Reilly, operations manager at LAMBPRO, and New Zealander Sam Vivian-Greer, farm consultant at BakerAg were crowned as joint winners of the 2021 Award. Previous winners have included dairy, sheep and beef farmers, through to a business manager of a sheep milk company, a vet, a manager of a large station, and a beef extension officer.

Applications are open to individuals aged 21-35 years, who live and work in the livestock sector in Australia or New Zealand. Entries close on Tuesday 31 August.

For further details and to apply online, click here

Source: PPP