A year of adventure down under
Are you aged between 18 and 25 and interested in experiencing and learning about the New Zealand dairy industry?
The Rich Wigram New Zealand Farming Scholarship was launched in 2012 to give two youngsters every year the opportunity to experience Down Under dairy farming.
The scholarship pays for return air fares and helps secure the two candidates a job on-farm to give them as much first-hand experience as possible for 12 months.
In memory of Richard Wigram, the scholarship was set up following his death in an accident at his New Zealand farm in 2010, aged just 34.
Originally from Devon, Mr Wigram emigrated to New Zealand with his wife Lou in 2004 to begin a successful career in cattle farming and the scholarship fund is now managed by his family and friends.
Rich’s father Francis Wigram said: “We are not looking for lots of milking experience or high academic qualifications, what we want is enthusiasm, a keen desire to learn, initiative and someone who is prepared to work hard when required. New Zealand is a great place for people with a work hard - play hard approach to life.”
The successful candidate will have a mentor in New Zealand to guide them and help if they have work related issues. At the end of the year they will be asked to write a short report on their experiences and help to promote the scholarship for the future through social media or word of mouth.
Mr Wigram added: “This is an excellent opportunity to experience sustainable grass-based systems while enjoying amazing scenery, many outdoor activities and a different culture. Keely Mills was awarded the scholarship in 2020 but only made it to New Zealand earlier this year because of the pandemic.
Speaking from Ashburton in New Zealand’s South Island, she said: “The scholarship has really changed my life for the better. I’m getting a full experience here with women being so accepted in agriculture... I’m having an amazing time.”
To find out more about the scholarship and to download an application form go to richwigramnzscholarship.org. The closing date for applications is January 28th, 2023
