Science Snippet: Cryopreservation Protects Grapevines at Lincoln University
A Lincoln University research fellow is working to safeguard grapevine species from extinction, using careful science and liquid nitrogen.
The South Island Dairy Event has announced Jessica Findlay as the recipient of the BrightSIDE Scholarship Programme, recognising her commitment to furthering her education and future career in the New Zealand dairy industry.
Currently studying towards a Bachelor of Agriculture at Lincoln University, Jessica has recently completed her second year, and is about to begin her third and final year, where she plans to focus her degree towards the dairy sector.
With her final year largely made up of elective papers, Jessica is focusing on courses that will strengthen her knowledge and practical understanding of dairy farming systems. She intends to enrol in Dairy Production Science and Pasture Agronomy, which she believes will best prepare her for a career in the dairy industry.
"I want to build a degree that gives me a strong foundation for working within the NZ dairy industry," she says. "These courses will help me better understand both animal performance and pasture-based systems, which are so critical to our farming model."
The scholarship has been established to extend its impact beyond the one-day BrightSIDE event, further reflecting SIDE's commitment to investing in the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders.
The scholarship is open to previous BrightSIDE attendees pursuing further education or training in agriculture, including those entering university-level agricultural study, beginning a career in the dairy industry through a recognised training provider, or upskilling as a working farmer through a high-level course. Successful applicants may receive funding of up to $3,000 to support their education or training, with applications open later in the year.
This year's event will be held on April 1st at the Ashley Dene Research Development Station near Lincoln, targeting those considering a career in the dairy industry, particularly year 11-13 students, school leavers, university students, and anyone looking for a change in career.
The day will showcase the breadth of careers available, from hands-on farming through to cutting-edge technology and science. Participants will spend the day rotating around a series of interactive, hands-on modules that highlight the range of skills required in modern dairying.
For BrightSIDE registrations visit www.side.org.nz for more information.
Cyclone Vaianu is continuing its track south towards the Bay of Plenty, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rain, and large swells, says Metservice.
While Cyclone Vaianu remains off the East Coast of New Zealand, the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group says impacts have been felt overnight.
A Local State of Emergency has been declared for the Waikato for a period of seven days as the region prepares for Cyclone Vaianu to hit the area.
Farmers will get an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in sheep genetics at the Sheep Breeder Forum this May.
Specialist horticulture and viticulture weather forecasters Metris says the incoming Cyclone Vaianu is likely to impact growers across the country.
A group of old Otago uni mates with a love of South Island back-country have gone the lengths of Waiau Toa Clarence from source to sea. Tim Fulton, who joined the group in the final fun to the river mouth, tells their story.
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