Jay Elliot is a prime example of how to follow your passions in agriculture, regardless of age. As a mature-aged student, Jay is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Science, Animal Science/Animal Health at Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia.
With initial interest in becoming a vet, Jay realised there were so many other options in agriculture that she hadn't explored. While her passion still lies in livestock, but she has broadened her experience during her studies by participating in a six-week scholarship in Indonesia.
The scholarship was part of the Agricultural Professional Practicum through Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country' Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) Study Indonesia. Jay was part of a small cohort of 90 students from around Australia who travelled over to Indonesia, and the learning and connections made during the six-weeks have solidified her passion for the agricultural industry.
"Travelling to Indonesia really opened my eyes," Jay said.
"Learning from Indonesian farmers and the difficulties they are having in genetics, land competitiveness and access to markets resonated with all of us as they are the same issues Australian farmers are dealing with daily."
"The impacts of weather patterns, water crisis, and global pricing were intriguing, and learning from global industry specialists has given me further contacts to share new research with. It was an absolutely invaluable opportunity and I know it will impact my future decision making in my ag career."
Ben White, Kondinin Group's General Manager of Research, said Jay's enthusiasm for learning and take on the challenge of balancing family and study was a credit to her.
"Our industry needs people like Jay who come in with a wealth of knowledge and experience from outside farming, who have the passion to succeed and make change."
Sheridan Ingold, Manager, Capacity Building at AgriFutures Australia, said Jay was a role model for mature-aged students looking to branch into agriculture as a new career opportunity.
"AgriFutures Australia is committed to supporting students with ambitions to become leaders in our industry," Sheridan said.
"Mature-aged students like Jay, who come from outside the industry, offer a different perspective and can provide great insight to others considering agriculture as a career option. This different perspective enriches our industry and encourages diversity and sustainability."
Jay is a member of Women In Farming - a network of branches across WA committed to improving knowledge and management of farm businesses. Together with a group of aspiring women who represent many avenues of agriculture and related industries, Jay has found the network an incredible support.
In addition to her studies, Jay assists in sheep judging for the Kelmscott Agricultural Show. Through her involvement, she has focused a great deal on encouraging high school students to get involved in agriculture.
Jay's balance of raising her teenage daughters, studying fulltime and working part time is inspiring. She is passionate about showing women and mothers that it can be done, and they can strive to be the best they can even when they are from regional areas, where often challenges are greater.
"I have such a passion for the agricultural industry and working with animals, so I know livestock is where I truly want to be," Jay said.
"Representing our regional area is also such a privilege for me and I would love to put our area, and its great way of living, in the spotlight.
"I want my daughters to be proud of what I have achieved, and to know they too can make career decisions at any point in their life. I hope to show other women, mothers, and girls, that we can be amazing and passionate in what we love and that it is never too late to start learning!"
