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    David Jochinke.

AgLife: VFF plaudits for ag-study pledge

The Victorian Farmers Federation has welcomed a $50-million State Government investment into improving facilities, teaching and access to courses at regional agricultural colleges and training providers.

VFF president David Jochinke said the future of Victorian agriculture was bright and further investment into the sector was crucial to help attract the next generation of farmers and help position regional Victoria for growth.

“Agriculture is the lifeblood of regional Victoria with ample career opportunities for young Victorians,” he said.

The government investment includes $30-million for student upgrades and teaching facilities to be shared between agricultural institutions Longerenong College near Horsham, University of Melbourne’s Dookie campus and Marcus Oldham College’s Waurn Ponds campus in Geelong.



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“We need to ensure there are avenues for those interested to learn about agriculture and not have to move out of the country to the city to do so,” Mr Jochinke said.

“If we enable more agriculture students to live and study in the country, more than likely they stay to work in the regions. 

“It’s a win-win for regional Victoria.There’s also the added ability for rural areas to host events and conferences, which can only be seen as a positive step forward.”

 Mr Jochinke said the VFF had been calling for investment to meet the growing needs of skilled workers in Victorian agriculture.

“The VFF requested the Victorian government invest in certificate-level agriculture and horticulture courses in the budget this year and we are pleased to receive news of this significant commitment,” he said.

“Agriculture is undoubtedly a growth industry and jobs are in huge demand. This investment is another measure to encourage prospective students into careers in agriculture and the regions to meet this ongoing demand.”

• Longerenong College gains $6.5-million for ‘shovel ready’ accommodation project. 

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!