DemoDAIRY Foundation is launching a new round of scholarships to help young south-west Victorians to get a start in the dairy industry.
And it might be the last time that local students have an opportunity to apply for DemoDAIRY Foundation support, with a mixture of one and two-year scholarships now being offered.
DemoDAIRY Foundation is aiming to complete all scholarships and contributions to the local dairy industry by June 30, 2027. Traditionally the Foundation has offered scholarships for up to five years but as a finite, closed-end fund, the capacity to support activities is reduced.
“The Foundation wants to support keen young people who see a future in the dairy industry,” secretary Ian Teese said. “We look forward to applications and will try to support as many students as possible.”
The new one and two-year scholarships are now available and applications are sought by November 28 at https://www.demodairy.com.au/scholarships/.
More than $800,000 has been allocated across the region since the DemoDAIRY Foundation was formed in 2018 with funds from the sale of the former DemoDAIRY Cooperative near Terang.
Mr Teese said the Foundation still had a reasonable amount of money available and would be looking at other ways to continue supporting and showcasing the local dairy industry.
DemoDAIRY Foundation will hold its AGM on Tuesday November 25 in Warrnambool where it will review the scholarship program, discuss group projects and assess the benefits of supporting events with the Koroit Ag field days, the Western District Youth Camp and study tours.
DemoDAIRY Foundation offers scholarships for students starting Certificate III and IV in agriculture, diplomas and tertiary degrees.
Mr Teese said this would likely be the last year that students could access two years of $6000 scholarships, depending on the level of demand and the availability of funds. Part of the selection process may include interviews.
“Regardless of what you’re starting to study in 2026, the most we can offer is two years, but most of the money is spent in the first six months of a scholarship, with payments for fees, accommodation and equipment.”
Mr Teese said the Foundation had helped to develop a better future for the dairy industry in south-west Victoria since 2018, with many former scholarship recipients were now working on dairy farms or in agribusinesses supporting dairy farms.
More information can be found at https://www.demodairy.com.au/scholarships/ or from Mr Teese on 0427 358987 or itag@bigpond.com.