Rural professionals
MDC recognises that investing in the development of young people is crucial to building and retaining a skilled and capable future workforce. This priority addresses many of the recommendations of the MLA Education Pipeline Review, which concluded that without an adequate supply of extension professionals, MLA and the broader industry will not be able to meet the objectives of the Meat Industry Strategic Plan 2020.
Livestock Consulting Internship program
Supported by MDC and managed by Meridian Agriculture, the Livestock Consulting Internship is a partnership between MDC and consulting firms designed to provide the interns with the industry experience, foundational skills and knowledge to accelerate their livestock consulting careers.
This program provides valuable personal development support, practical skills and access to industry networks whilst the interns undertake a Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Consulting.
Over the two years, the interns also identify, develop and implement a major industry research project, giving them a real-world understanding of the implementation of R&D.
In June 2017, the first cohort graduated from the two-year program, marking a significant milestone along their career path as livestock consultants. All nine interns who started the program in 2015 graduated after completing their internships with participating livestock consulting businesses throughout Australia. The partner consulting firms comprised: Brennan Mayne Agribusiness; Agripath; Sheepmatters; Meridian Agriculture; Outcross Agri‑Services; RMCG; Planfarm; Sally Martin Consulting; and Moses & Son.
Following the success of the first round of the Internship program, MDC has supported a second round with a new cohort of 8 having recently commenced their internships. A formal mentoring component has been introduced with the first round of interns who graduated from the program matched with the new interns to provide support and guidance.
For more information about the Livestock Consulting internship contact us at mdc@mla.com.au