The Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) is encouraging science students at the University of Queensland to apply for $5000 scholarships being offered to entice more young minds to the banana industry.
The Mort Johnston Professional Development Scholarship will provide financial assistance to students in their third year of study of agricultural or related science degree programs at UQ.
The foundation was established in 2007, in honour of pioneering Tully banana grower Mort Johnston.
In previous years, the scholarship has funded innovative projects designed to advance the banana industry, including research into banana diseases, improved farming practices and environmental management.
However, in 2016 the ABGC and the Johnston family have reworked the foundation to focus on supporting individual students, who have a desire to work in the banana industry.
Mr Johnston’s son, Paul Johnston said he was very supportive of the new direction the scholarship was being taken.
''I am happy it’s taken this direction,” Paul said. “It’s a great way to get students involved, to give them a chance to experience the banana industry. It’s a chance that they may have not been able to get before.”
On top of $5000 in financial assistance, successful applicants will be offered vacation employment at one or more banana enterprises.
The purpose of the bursary is to provide high achieving students the opportunity to consider a career in the ever evolving and dynamic banana industry.
Successful applicants will be assisted by the ABGC to arrange valuable work experience with a banana grower or other employer, who will pay the student for the work they perform.
Mr Johnston said he hoped such opportunities would draw more young minds to the industry.
“Hopefully, in the long run once they get the experience, they will consider a future in the banana industry,’’ Mr Johnston said.
“The scientists we have today are not going to be there forever. And, the science involved in the industry has never been more important than today, especially with Panama TR4 and other potential disease risks.”
Mr Johnston, who continues to work the family farm with his two brothers, said focussing on student development was in keeping with his father’s pioneering vision.
“It’s a great way to keep his name involved in the industry. He was always optimistic about the banana industry and he was always encouraging young people to get involved. The way the scholarship is set up now, it really follows on from that.’’
Applications for the Mort Johnston Professional Development Scholarship are now open. For further information on the scholarship or an application form go to; abgc.org.au/projects-resources/mort-johnston-scholarship/
For more information:
Sonia Campbell
ABGC Communication’s Officer
Mob: 0428 038 330