The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has launched the 2010 VFF/Elders Insurance Young Agricultural Apprentice of the Year Award, with the search now on to find Victoria’s most talented young farmer.

VFF President Andrew Broad said the VFF/Elders Insurance Apprentice of the Year Award sought to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional contribution that young apprentices make to their workplaces.

“Victoria has a plethora of young, talented agricultural apprentices. This award aims to recognise their contribution to our industry and to reward Victoria’s best farming apprentice for their achievements,” Mr Broad said.

“As well as claiming the title of Victoria’s most outstanding agricultural apprentice, the winner is also set to receive a brand new Honda motorbike and rider safety course as part of the total prize pool being offered by sponsors including Elders Insurance, Honda and Marcus Oldham College.

“In selecting the top candidate, the judging panel will be looking for apprentices that make a real difference to the property they work on by going beyond expectations and delivering measurable benefits.

“They may have introduced a new idea or initiative that has had a positive impact on the business, for example doing something that has improved procedures and systems, or made an important contribution to the development of a product or special project.

“In addition, all applicants will receive a free 12 month student membership of the VFF which will give them access to a range of benefits and services including comprehensive industrial relations services, members-only publications, forums, workshops, professional training and development and much more.”

“Each of the VFF’s Commodity Groups is also looking for the best apprentice in their particular field, including the grains, dairy, livestock, chicken, pig and horticulture groups.

“The Award is open to Agriculture Certificate 3 & 4 apprentices, studying either full-time or part-time. To be eligible to enter, the apprentice must complete the course requirements in the 12 months prior to 31 December 2009,” Mr Broad said.

Applications close Friday, 19 February 2010. For more information, or to receive an application form, call VFF Member Services on 1300 882 833. Alternatively, click here to download an electronic version of the application form.

Media Contacts
Beth Richens, VFF Public Affairs Advisor, 0400 934 277