THE hunt is on for the 2026 Nuffield scholars and Natalie Schlitz is adamant it is an opportunity too good to pass up.
An agronomist by trade, Ms Schlitz has seen firsthand the significance of the fodder export market in Australia, and the challenges the sector faces.
Ms Schlitz, who currently works in extension development for Dairy Australia, also contributes to her family’s property, Uondo Pastoral, which operates between Kerang and Quambatook producing grain and hay as well as running sheep for prime lamb and wool.
As a 2024 scholar, she investigated weaknesses threatening the viability of the Australian fodder export sector when faced with a water-limited future.
“Contributing to the Fodder for the Future project though Murray Dairy demonstrated to me the lack of research regarding the production of high-quality fodder,” Ms Schlitz explained.
“The Australian industry has limited experts to draw on for new information. We have a whole generation of individuals who are experts within the field, but where are our upcoming industry champions and what effect could that have on the production of local research?”
Ms Schlitz pointed out the industry faces a major challenge to ensure consistency in quality and quantity is maintained in a water-limited future.
“This is compounded by deficiencies identified by the AgriFutures Export Hay Strategic Plan such as technical information on the critical parameters most directly linked to influencing opportunity value and the potential path to reach carbon neutrality,” she said.
Her scholarship included travels and research in Australia as well as the Middle East, US, Europe, Argentina and Japan.
Nuffield Australia chief executive Jodie Redcliffe, herself a 2013 scholar, agreed with Ms Schlitz’s emphasis on the value of the scholarships.
“From paddocks to boardrooms, Nuffield scholars ensure Australian agriculture will thrive in a changing world,” Ms Redcliffe said.
“Nuffield Australia has opened applications for its 2026 scholarships, calling on the next crop of Australian agriculturalists to be curious, drive change and help their industry thrive.
“Farmers and those working in the agriculture industry are encouraged to seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by applying for a scholarship for 15 weeks of overseas study.”
Ms Redcliffe said Nuffield scholarships were recognised as the pinnacle of industry-based, experiential learning for primary producers and that recipients had a rare opportunity to visit, learn from and collaborate not only with other scholars but with agribusiness leaders around the world.
“By fostering a culture of curiosity and excellence, we challenge scholars to step beyond their comfort zones, exploring groundbreaking ideas and solutions that can reshape Australian agriculture,” she said.
“The journey is transformative, offering life changing experiences which empower individuals to lead with focus.”
The organisation awards around 20 scholarships each year, enabling the sharing of knowledge which creates a sustainable and profitable food and fibre industry.
Some of these scholarships target specific agricultural industries, while others are open to a wider range.
Nuffield Australia, which celebrates its 75th year of scholarships this year, will again offer up to five drought resilience-specific scholarships, supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
Applications close on Friday, May 16.
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