Excited students from across Victoria were recognised at three online Cows Create Careers presentation days in October and November.
The presentation days celebrated the achievements of students who have completed the innovative Cows Create Careers project, which aims to increase the awareness of dairy industry careers.
To lead by example, the Cows Create Careers project was delivered online for the second half of this year, due to the possible implications of foot and mouth disease.
Students and teachers from schools across Victoria have participated in these high-energy online events, to celebrate their achievements as part of the project.
The fun-filled days saw students participate in industry-based games and the project’s winning teams awarded prizes.
The program manager is Jaydee Events.
Jayedee Events director John Hutchison said it was encouraging to see students so passionate to learn, and connect with, Australia’s vibrant dairy industry.
“The presentation days are a great way to recognise and celebrate both the students’ and teachers’ dedication to the Cows Create Careers project,” he said.
“Each year we continue to be inspired by their enthusiasm for the project.”
During 2022, more than 60 Victorian schools were provided with dairy industry curriculum, at no cost. Students took an online journey through Willbrae Farm where they were introduced to two dairy calves, ‘Bright’ and ‘Future’.
Over five weeks, students found out how to care for the calves and watch them grow through engaging videos. Students also learnt about the environment, technology and machinery used on-farm through quirky activities and competitions.
“Cows Create Careers allows students learn about the wide range of skills, educational pathways and careers in Australia’s dairy industry,” John said.
“It’s extremely encouraging to see the ongoing benefits of the project; not only are the students learning about the diversity of skills required in the industry, but it also directly connects them to their local community.”
Cows Create Careers was established in 2004 with dairy farmers in the Strzelecki Lions Club in Victoria and nine Gippsland schools. It has now grown to more than 230 schools across Australia with more than 1500 students completing the project in 2021.
John said the project’s passionate volunteers were vital to the continued success of the Cows Create Careers project.
“Since its inception, Cows Create Careers has gained support from industry, regional development programs, dairy farmers and sponsors across Australia.
“Last year alone 425 passionate volunteers gave 2125 hours of their time across 23 Australian dairying regions.”