Local talent uses tech to grow agribusiness in the Burdekin
Growing up on her family’s farm in the Burdekin region, 19-year-old Rina Patane saw a promising future for herself in agriculture – using technology to plant the seeds of innovation in a well-established sector.
Excelling in agricultural studies at Home Hill State High School, Rina undertook a Certificate II in Horticulture through TAFE at CQUniversity in Grades 11 and 12, before applying for the Queensland Farmers’ Federation’s AgTech Officer Placement Program.
Funded through the Queensland Government’s VET Emerging Industries initiative, the program has supported 12-month placements for up to 20 AgTech Officers – connecting them with host agribusinesses to help develop skills in real-world environments, support the digitisation of the sector and accelerate the uptake of new technologies.
Rina soon found a local placement with Burdekin Productivity Services (BPS) – a not-for-profit organisation providing agronomic support to cane growers in North Queensland.
During the program, Rina undertook a range of training including a geospatial skillset, driving and quad bike training, and training required to obtain her remote pilot licence and conduct drone flights to assist growers with identifying pest damage and monitoring crop health.
Manager of Burdekin Productivity Services Rob Milla said hosting Rina has proven to be mutually beneficial.
“It is often a big challenge to find suitably qualified staff, and this program presents an opportunity to train and develop young people in agriculture and technology to hopefully retain them for the long-term,” Mr Milla said.
“Rina has demonstrated a very keen interest in agriculture and technology, and the program has fast tracked her training and practical skills.”
More than 18 months after she began her placement, Rina now has a permanent role as a Field Officer with BPS, while studying remotely to complete her Bachelor of Horticulture.
Learn more about training options.
Find out about The Right Skills Strategy.