Impressions of 2010 Nuffield Australia Scholars

Jennifer Hawkins

Finley NSW, Irrigation Farmer

The Nuffield Scholarship has given me places to experience, problems to be addressed, friends to make, thoughts to be generated, minds to tackle, issues to develop, ethics to be confronted and lives to be enriched. The program has a multitude of different learning opportunities with local, national and international networks that support and encourage you all the way. The benefits for you are ongoing - well after your “Nuffield Year.”

I now have the time and ability to conceptualize, build upon and report to the broader agricultural community on issues that affect them. This has given me experiences and outcomes that I can use both within our business and the wider industry. The impressive sponsorship reflects the commitment that industry and philanthropic organizations have to the Nuffield Program and its scholars. Its the bona fide human capacity building opportunity of a lifetime. Just put your hand up and have a go...

David Cussons

Konjonup WA, Grain & Wool Producer

A Nuffield Scholarship has opened doors around the world like I never thought possible. Starting with a six week Global Focus Program, during which you travel with a group of fellow scholars to look at global agricultural powerhouses, the Nuffield experience is one in which you meet extraordinary people who are passionate, driven and at the very forefront of their respective fields.

The opportunity to travel as an individual and research your topic of interest is capacity building at its best. To meet the best in the world in your chosen topic, knowing you have the immense Nuffield network behind you is literally a once in a lifetime opportunity.

One of the best things about a Nuffield Scholarship is the long-term benefits of plugging into a network of scholars, here in Australia and around the world, who are constantly pushing the boundaries with an inquiring mind and a drive to succeed - now I’m part of that network, I wonder how I ever got along without it!

Rob Bradley

Longford TAS, Irrigated Cropping Farmer

Exceeding expectation is the hallmark of a Nuffield farming scholarship, along with an outstanding opportunity for personal and business growth. It is a adventure, a challenge and a year in your life you will never forget.

For me the scholarship was a perfect chance for a mid career review. It allowed me to benchmark myself and the business against world best practise. The time away from home and farm, as difficult as it seemed, provided a valuable perspective for change and improvement.

The three facets of a Nuffield program; the Contemporary Scholars Conference, the Global Focus Tour and my own individual studies, delivered me home inspired, with a renewed sense of confidence and a far greater understanding of our place in the world of agriculture.