From livestock buying out in the paddock to on-plant operations, Greenham’s 2022 Marcus Oldham scholarship recipient, Lachlan Gardner’s two-week work placement gave him an end-to-end tour of Greenham’s supply chain.
Formed in partnership with Marcus Oldham College in 2000, the annual $20,000 scholarship is available to Marcus Oldham students studying a Bachelor of Business (Agriculture).
Originally from New South Wales’ Hunter Valley, Lachlan has previously worked on cattle stations in Queensland, and aspires to build a career that contributes to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural industry.
As part of the scholarship selection process Lachlan wrote an essay in response to the question: how do you believe the Australian beef or dairy industry will be challenged over the next 15 years, and what motivates you to be involved?
Lachlan said he believed the biggest challenges facing the industry included climate change and changing consumer expectations.
“The change in consumer expectations and climate variability motivates me to find and utilise new technologies to improve efficiencies and animal health outcomes,” he said.
“Every challenge presents an opportunity to find a solution. I am eager to continue my involvement with the beef industry and strive for more efficient, productive, and sustainable operations.”
Lachlan kicked off his two-week work placement at Greenham in May at the Moe processing facility, followed by a few days in the livestock buying team in north-west Victoria, before finishing up at head office in Port Melbourne.
“The exposure to such a progressive operation has given me extensive knowledge in many different areas and confirms the endless opportunities available for young people in the beef industry,” Lachlan said.
“The generosity of the team at Moe was greatly appreciated as I was shown every step in the process and gained an understanding of the science and day-to-day operations of an abattoir.
“And the time with the livestock team showed me the importance of strong relationships between Greenham’s buyers and producers. And the opportunity to see quality cattle in both grass and grainfed programs, and what to look for when purchasing cattle was invaluable.”
Greenham Managing Director, Peter Greenham thanked the scholarship panel for undertaking the difficult task of choosing a recipient from a quality pool of applicants.
“Thank you to Greenham cattle supplier, Matt Henry, Marcus Oldham Scholarships & Alumni Officer, Neen Mackenzie, and Marcus Oldham Deputy Principal, Winks Gubbins,” he said.
For more information about the Marcus Oldham scholarship, contact Emma Boughen at eboughen@greenham.com.au | 0456 807 208.
