Gap year for cotton career
SCHOOL students in the Darling Downs interested in a career in agriculture are encouraged to apply for Cotton Australia’s CottonGap program.
The program, now in its third year, sees school leavers employed by growers as operational staff for 12 months.
In what is a valuable opportunity, the program helps students learn about the cotton industry and develop pathways to remain in the sector; growers receive an opportunity to teach the next generation while having an extra pair of hands to help around the farm.
Mungindi grower Andrew O’Connor from Evolution Farming took on a gap year student last year and said the program was beneficial.
“Our student arrived with limited experience in agriculture and now I’m pleased to report he has developed exceptional skills in the industry,” Mr O’Connor says.
“For our farm, it’s important to us that we train interested young people, so we can keep our money in Australia and foster relationships that will be beneficial for the cotton industry and agriculture into the future.
“I‘d encourage any grower or student interested to get behind the program.”
Cotton Australia general manager Michael Murray encourages growers and school leavers to be involved in the program.
“CottonGap is an important way for growers to engage with the next generation of cotton industry workers,” he says.
“For school leavers, this program will give you hands-on experience and new skills, as well as insight into the innovative, sustainable and responsible cotton industry we have in Australia.
“Cotton Australia is committed to helping growers and students connect, and supporting them throughout the CottonGap program.
“We’ve already had some wonderful outcomes, and we can’t wait to see the positive difference this year’s program brings to the lives of those involved, and to our industry as a whole.”
School leavers and growers can receive more information and apply to be involved in CottonGap at the Cotton Australia website.