MOCOSA | Issue 53 | June 2024

Muster Masters

Kate Austin and Ciaron Maher Racing

Malcolm and Tonya McCusker supporting a boost to graduate numbers

Flying

Michael McConachy and Australia's newest regional airline

Marcus Alumni star on ABC's Muster Dogs

Marcus Oldham College 2024

Save the dates 2024

JULY

19 - 21 Australian Sheep & Wool Show, Bendigo, VIC

21 Open Day, Marcus Oldham College

AUGUST

4 - 5 Sheepvention, Hamilton, VIC

7 - 8 LambEx, Adelaide, SA

15 Marcus Connect Tour, Horsham, VIC

16 Marcus Connect Tour, Geelong, VIC

18 - 23 Rural Leadership Program 2, Marcus Oldham College

20 - 22 AgQuip, Gunnedah, NSW

28 - 29 Dowerin Field Days, Dowerin, WA

SEPTEMBER

6

Marcus Connect Tour, Adelaide, SA

19 - 21 Henty Machinery Field Days, NSW

19 - 23 National Interschool Equestrian Championships, Tamworth, QLD

21 2012 Reunion, Geelong, VIC

OCTOBER

21 1967 - 1969 Reunion, Mooloolaba, QLD

24 Geelong Cup, Geelong, VIC

DECEMBER

6 Graduation, Geelong, VIC

Back Row Sa m Black, Zach Jenkinson, Sam Marshall, Tom Acton, Hugh Helps, Hain van Eyk, Doclan Jackson, Archie Wilson, Ashton Lantzke, Dougal Coleman, Archie Howard, Toby Humphris, Alex Ritchie, Lachlan McGregor, Tom Younghusband, Hamish Macdougall, Ben Carter, Reagan Jones, Fergus Lawrence, Charlie Duff, Louis Orr, Walter Wilson, Tom Foss, Dan Luers, Tom Aveyard, Lachie Barrett, Will Wheaton

Row 6 Ha mish Wortley, Lachlan McLennan, Angas Burvill, Charlie Kelsall, James Chomley, Declan Phillips, Matthew Dykes, Angus Place, Hugh Plowman, Toby Allen, Harry Bufton, Sam Hector, Tom Cleland, Hugh Valpied, Harrison Alick, Angus Bade, Kaleb McIlveen, Benjamin Reardon, Samuel Crouch-Loveday, Thomas Eather, Will Kirkpatrick, Tom Walton, Hamish Klemm, Lewis Parsons, Will Seyffer, Ollie Harding, Harry Wetherall

Row 5 Wi lliam Hyles, William Liston, Tom Cruikshank, Tom Doonan, Dougal Sweeney, Michael Bradford, Max Bidstrup, steven Harris, Darcy Stringer, Samuel Bain, Mitchell Houldcroft, Charlotte Hood, William Cameron, Olivia Nugent-O`Leary, Jack Webster, George Hickson, Jack Liston, George Purser, Jock Adamson, William Allen, Jack Davidson, Brad Matthews, Mac Shaw, Ben Makeham, Harry Deshon, Fergus Tuck, Harry Vincent

Photo: Newdale, New Norcia, WA by Angie Roe Photography

Cover photo: Jesse Smith – courtesy of ABC 'Muster Dogs.'

Row 4 Co oper Pearson, Mimi Mollett, Annie Holland, Bethany Sudholz, Jessica Mosely, Zara Warren, Lillian Ives, Hugh Tuck, India Allen, Edward Cox, Daisy Berryman, Sam Smith, Benjamin Coe, Oscar Klose, Evey White, Angus Earle, Bede Archer, Pippa Browning, James Dawson, Phillipa McNamee, Gabriella Gardner, Emily Nixon, Annabelle Campbell, April Webster, Willow Noble, Bridget Stokes, Josephine Crothers, Darcy Pearse, Lachlan Campbell

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Andrew Baker

Almost 100 new students experienced their first day at Marcus on 29 January, taking the on-campus student numbers to a record 165. It’s always exciting to see our new students embark on their academic journey and their investment in their learning.

One of the joys of the job is seeing the students grow in confidence, as they transition throughout their time at Marcus. I always say to the students at the start of the year, “Good luck and buckle in for what is going to be an incredible ride in your personal growth and development”. That transformation in confidence and knowledge is really noticeable, particularly now that undergraduates are able to complete their degree in two academic years.

Exciting developments are underway with the commencement of construction on the new 45-bedroom accommodation wing, thanks to the extraordinary generosity of College supporters.

Students come to Marcus to have a collective experience that we refer to as an “immersive learning model”. At Marcus, we ensure close interaction with lecturers and peers, along with the intensive study weeks and a unique trimester academic calendar. Living on campus is integral to our students' full learning experience, fostering invaluable collegiate learning in communal spaces beyond the classroom. The new student accommodation wing will mean that all students will be able to live and learn on campus and enjoy the full Marcus experience.

The strong student numbers have given the College the confidence to recruit four new staff to the lecturing team. Not only does this inject new vigour into the staff, but ensures we uphold our exceptional educational standards, continuity of the College culture, and adherence to the distinctive Marcus ethos.

In another exciting update, in 2023 the College introduced the Centre of Professional Development. This initiative has amalgamated the postgraduate courses with the Centre for the Study of Agribusiness. Under this umbrella, the postgraduate program, which encompasses the Graduate

Certificate of Agribusiness and the Master of Agribusiness, has merged with the Centre for the Study of Agribusiness, which includes the AgTalk podcasts, the Rural Leadership Program, and other relevant and tailor-made courses.

This strategic integration allows us to broaden our educational horizons. The College will offer various short courses, such as the Rural Leadership Program, that can be counted as credit units for the post graduate program and are aligned with industry needs. This synergy not only enriches our curriculum but also provides Alumni and the wider rural industry with an extended Marcus learning experience.

As we move forward, I am enthusiastic about how these strategic initiatives will better serve the Marcus community and continue to advance agriculture through innovative educational programs in Agriculture, Agribusiness and Equine Management.

Andrew Baker Principal baker@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

FROM THE MOCOSA PRESIDENT

Peter Stephens

I'd like to thank local alumni who have "rallied the troops" in their areas and are reaching out to prospective students.

The engagement with Marcus in the bush continues into 2024, with Marcus Connect functions in Deniliquin, Orange, and Wagga Wagga all taking place in March. The level of interest in what's happening at Marcus is as high as our last year's trips to Tamworth, Goondiwindi, Toowoomba, Perth, Albury, Geelong, and Launceston.

The "Old Students," as has been said many times, are the College's greatest asset. You are walking, talking billboards for Marcus in how you conduct yourselves in your chosen profession and reflect the impact of Marcus in your life.

Towards the end of 2023, many past students put their hands in their pockets to help fund the construction of the new 45-bed student accommodation building. A great deal of that generosity from Alumni came after they attended a Marcus Connect event and learned about the progress at the College. Past graduates were also pleased to hear that the basic principles of the immersive, on-campus, elite teaching, and relevant education we all experienced, are unchanged.

It is with much happiness as a College Councillor, as well as President of MOCOSA, that I can advise Alumni that the financial target set by the Council to greenlight construction of the 45-bed student residence was achieved. Council Chairman Rob McGavin AdCertAA'93 signed the contracts in late December for work to begin in the New Year.

To raise $7.5 million in just over three months is a testament to the work done by many, but none more than past students, Rob McGavin and Deputy Chair and Foundation Chair James Bufton DipFM'94. Their passion for the College many years after they graduated shows no bounds. Many other friends of the College have contributed large

sums and, while some are not graduates, they are all extremely aware of the role Marcus Oldham plays in the fabric of Australian agriculture.

We still need to raise a further $2.5 million to complete the building project, and I encourage all of us to consider a fully tax-deductible donation to the College Foundation before June 30. You can donate via the College website.

The 2023 graduation was held in December, with a large group of students, parents, and friends packing Costa Hall at Deakin to share in the culmination of much hard work.

As usual, the "Graduate of Excellence" speaker was a highlight. The recipient, Australia's leading rural literature author, Fleur McDonald AdCertAA'95, gave an outstanding speech about how the lessons she learned from Marcus helped her navigate incredible hurdles she had to overcome on her way to becoming a successful farmer and author.

While Marcus graduates don't usually blow their own trumpets, I appeal to the Alumni to do it for them. Nominate a graduate who you would consider worthy of this prestigious award and let them share their story with graduates about to write their own.

As usual, reach out any time, and in the meantime, wishing you all a safe and productive winter/spring, wherever you reside.

Peter Stephens DipFM'83 MOCOSA President

peter.stephens60@gmail.com 0447 224 969

Muster Masters

Marcus Alumni star on ABC's Muster Dogs

Stories by Simone Dalton.

Zoe & her Buddy are champions

Zoe Miller DipEM’17 won hearts across Australia, as the winner of the second series of the ABC’s Muster Dogs.

Battling isolation, a lack of trainer stock, personal hardship, and her gravely ill Border Collie puppy Buddy, Zoe triumphed over adversity to dash home with a win.

Muster Dogs saw Zoe and four other participants each set the ambitious task of training one of five Border Collie sibling pups to drive stock by the age of 12 months.

This traditionally takes up to three years.

Zoe believes wisdom comes from observation and lived experience rather than time.

Spend time with this impressive young stock woman and you quickly see wisdom beyond her 26 years.

During the 12 months, Zoe and Buddy faced a series of setbacks which left Zoe "completely and utterly burnt out". At that moment, her own lived experience and encouragement from the show's dog educator Neil McDonald, put her back on course.

Zoe grew up on Rocklands Station near Camooweal with her four brothers and parents - Gavin and Narelle - who she calls "my biggest role models".

"Mum and Dad brought me up with the mindset of embracing opportunities, and one of the biggest things I love about working rurally is that challenge - you find a way and problem solve.

"I was doing a gap year in hospitality, when Mum and Dad moved to the Northern Territory. They were short of staff, and I went and worked on their station."

There, she decided to pursue a career in agriculture, which led her to equine studies at Marcus in 2017, and after graduation (as Dux), future roles at both Wave Hill and Inverway Stations in the NT.

While growing up, Zoe worked stock with horses, but was later introduced to working dogs by her former partner. In 2022, she completed a Neil McDonald dog training school. It was Neil, the expert trainer from Muster Dogs, who suggested Zoe apply for the program.

Photos by Jesse Smith – courtesy of ABC 'Muster Dogs.'

"I binged-watched (the first) Muster Dogs series, using it as learning material.”

While filming, Zoe was a contract cattle weaner educator in Katherine, NT, where, unlike the other participants, she struggled to source suitable trainer stock. She also faced other personal challenges, and at the 10-month mark, Buddy suddenly became gravely ill with giardiasis, which had claimed the lives of two Collies where she and Buddy had been working.

Zoe praised the production team for their professionalism and support.

"They were incredible to work with."

She said Muster Dogs had told a positive rural story, especially for young women keen to work in agriculture.

"It brought a sense of relatability and bridged rural and urban audiences."

Dogs has changed her life, providing new purpose in her ability to pay things forward.

Now working on a Queensland Wagyu property, Zoe is raising awareness as a Royal Flying Doctor Service ambassador. She also plans to document stories of inspiring women she has met over the years.

Zoe attributes Marcus Oldham as the place where she matured, gaining a good 'toolbox' and a realistic approach to agriculture.

She said Marcus Oldham lecturer David Cornish once told her: "What you demonstrated through your application and hard work at Marcus, was that the sky is the limit."

Australians witnessed this amazing potential on Muster Dogs earlier this year.

zoemiller124@gmail.com

Muster

Russ shines positive light on agriculture

Russ Fowler AdDipFBM'11 had a special motivation for throwing his hat in the ring for the ABC TV reality series Muster Dogs.

“My young son Charlie was obsessed with the first season.”

Russ applied and, in late 2022, soon found himself travelling from his family’s sheep, cattle and cropping property at Bothwell, in central Tasmania to South Australia to attend a dog training course as part of the selection process. Russ has years of dog training experience, but had never learned Muster Dogs trainer Neil McDonald’s technique.

The invitation came on a Tuesday, leaving Russ just days to find a way to get himself and a farm dog from Bothwell to Keith for the course.

“I flew to Melbourne, and then onto Adelaide and called on the Marcus network to borrow a car, as you can’t put a dog in a hire car.”

It was worth the effort, with Russ learning that he would be training the smallest of the show’s five sibling Border Collie puppies – Molly.

It was already a busy year with a new baby, Millie, for Russ, wife Rosie and brother Charlie, 7200 ha of farm to run, some seasonal challenges and, now, a delightfully wilful pup to train.

“I made it work. You can’t take time unless you make time, and she got little bits (of training) often.”

He also enjoyed the chance to shine the light on agriculture.

“Everyone has to give back and this was my chance to broadcast agriculture in a positive light."

russ_fowler@hotmail.com

“ I wanted people to understand that we care for our animals and if we don’t look after what we’ve got (the land) it doesn’t work for the next generation.”

With the Muster Dogs final staged in Queensland, cold climate Molly struggled in the heat, but as one of the runners up, Russ was nonetheless proud.

Flying high

With the launch of Australia’s newest regional airline and an expanding tourism empire, Michael McConachy DipFM’93 has plenty on his plate.

Story by Nathan Dyer

“ There are a lot of things that I could put my time into that would potentially give a bigger return, but it's about doing something I think is fundamentally important.”

On a hot, wet season afternoon, Michael McConachy stands on the tarmac at Kununurra airport for a photo beside a row of Aviair planes, part of a marketing shoot ahead of the 2024 tourist season. Walking back to his office, the Kimberley-based entrepreneur reflects on what’s been a period of significant growth for the HMC Group, the aviation and tourism operation founded by himself and business partner Geoff Hamilton a decade ago. What started as a two-person team in 2014 has grown into a business employing 350 people across Australia. Along with award-winning aviation businesses Aviair and HeliSpirit, the HMC portfolio includes hospitality and tourism ventures Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments, Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge, Bungle Bungle Guided Tours, the PumpHouse Restaurant and Kimberley Experiences. And perhaps most significantly, Nexus Airlines, Australia’s newest regional air carrier which the group launched in July last year, servicing Perth, Geraldton, Karratha, Port Hedland, Broome, Kununurra, Darwin and Kalgoorlie.

For Michael, the Nexus launch was a culmination of decades of business experience in regional Australia. “There are a lot of things that I could put my time into that would potentially give a bigger return, but it's about doing something I think is fundamentally important,” Michael says. “It's very satisfying to have a business where we’re opening up access between really remote parts of Australia and making lives more liveable for people, whether that's remote Aboriginal communities or small towns or even centres like Kununurra and Broome,” he says. “It’s very early days but we’re very proud of the airline that we’ve launched.”

One of the biggest challenges behind Nexus, Michael says, was the number of “unknowns”. “There's a lot of capital behind other competitors and that can put pressure on, so you must be there for the long term. And when you're dealing in aviation, the costs of the aircraft, the engines, and then doing it remotely, you're signing on to a substantial financial liability,” he says. “But that also makes it sweeter if you're successful at the end of the day.”

Born in Melbourne, Michael first experienced the richness of regional Australia on visits to his step grandfather’s farm in the small Mallee community of Nullawil in northern Victoria. “I always felt like I never really fitted in in the city, but out on farms as a teenager I felt that what I was doing on a daily basis was fundamentally important and valuable,” he says. “And it changed my outlook on life.”

After a stint working in Western Victoria, then jackerooing in the southern tablelands of NSW, Michael enrolled at Marcus Oldham where in 1991 he began a Diploma in Farm Business Management. After that he worked his way up from farm management roles to a career in commodities trading before setting up a rural property development company buying up under-performing farming businesses, and later an investment firm focussed on regional tourism parks. In 2009, he and wife Kate, along with children Anna and Sam, made the move north and threw themselves into an 80-apartment resort development in Kununurra.

Around the same time, Michael, an experienced pilot himself, saw big potential in Kimberley aviation tourism. “There’s no better place to fly in Australia,” he says, explaining how after finishing the resort development he and Geoff Hamilton initially purchased a dozen helicopters and launched the beginnings of the HMC Group. The fleet now includes 32 fixed-wing aircraft, 30 helicopters and Nexus Airlines’ five Dash 8 Q400s.

One of the keys to operating in remote regions like the Kimberley, Michael says, is to turn the challenges into competitive advantages. For example, when the group’s HeliSpirit business was finding it difficult to attract quality helicopter pilots, HMC set up their own training school. The Australian Helicopter Academy is now in its eighth year, and has produced around 20 pilots for the company.

It's also important, Michael says, to recruit people who share a passion for regional Australia. “We don't recruit

people by saying we'll give you a regional allowance or we'll give you an air conditioning allowance. We say, ‘Do you actually want to live in the Kimberley and experience all the benefits of a regional lifestyle?’,” he says. “We’re looking for people who not only come here and get invested in their work, but who also get invested in the community.”

Michael says that investment in community is about much more than money. “It's also about investing your time.” Over the years he’s chaired local groups including the St Joseph’s Primary School board, the Kimberley Development Commission, and the East Kimberley Marketing Group. Eighty per cent of HMC’s employees live regionally.

Three decades on, Michael says his time at Marcus played a pivotal role in his business trajectory. “One of the key things I learned at Marcus was how to find information,” he says.

“Regardless of whether you're farming or you're in agribusiness or you're running an aviation business, you need to understand what you don't know and then where to find that information and how to do that cost effectively.”

And he had this message for Marcus graduates just starting on their business careers. “I think it’s fundamentally important to find something you believe in,” he says. “Because I like to feel that what I'm doing each day is actually worthwhile.”

Photo: Nathan

Dyer

Centre for Professional Development

The Marcus Oldham Centre for Professional Development (CPD) has been launched, bringing together the College’s postgraduate and short course offerings under one banner.

Director David Cornish says the CPD provides a focus and interface for the College’s community engagement commitment.

“ The CPD is playing a key role in addressing the many issues that impact on agriculture and rural communities. We are delivering postgraduate and professional development opportunities that are relevant, engaging and applied.”

“Marcus Oldham graduates, agribusiness and equine professionals, and students pursuing further studies will benefit from ongoing connection with the College and access to our highly regarded leadership programs and corporate training.

“Through the CPD, Marcus will generate stronger and interconnected alumni and industry relationships. Whether seeking professional development personally or for staff, logging into The Marcus Minds Project (MMP) or listening to the podcast in a tractor or on a plane, there’s a growing community connected to the CPD.”

The CPD will deliver webinars, podcasts and seminars that focus on relevant opportunities and challenges facing today’s agribusiness/equine manager.

Marcus welcomed Nat Jeffrey as CPD Coordinator in January. Nat has come from 13 years at Gordon TAFE, starting as a teacher before moving into senior management roles.

"As both Education Manager and later Business Manager at Gordon TAFE, I've merged my expertise in coordinating short courses and educational programs with a keen understanding of governance, business objectives, and educational standards."

Continuous Education and Training for Marcus Alumni and Industry

Already the CPD is adding value, running its annual Rural Leadership Program in May and a second program in August, which is fully subscribed.

In May, Alumni and postgraduate students attended two courses at the College with Professor Pat Apperson, a facilitator in commodity hedging and agribusiness sales short courses from Clemson University in South Carolina.

Esteemed Professor of Sustainable Agriculture, Richard Eckard from The University of Melbourne, is the guest speaker at October’s Marcus Oldham CPD Forum in Melbourne. His research focuses on sustainable agricultural production, with a recent focus on carbon neutral agriculture and options for agriculture to respond to a changing climate.

As part of the Carbon Farming Outreach Program, the CPD, and the Grower Group Alliance, deliver training on the carbon market, on how farmers can integrate low emission technologies into their farming and land management practices. It is anticipated this will be available in 2025.

To learn more about the CPD: www.marcusoldham.vic.edu.au/cpd

Right: Centre for Professional Development Coordinator Nat Jeffrey and Director David Cornish

Leadership Grad Julie McDonald

Marcus Oldham College

Councillor Julie McDonald is the Chief Financial Officer of MDH Pty Ltd, one of Australia's largest privately-owned integrated beef cattle enterprises.

Julie is also a graduate of the 2023 Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program (MORLP) and a member of the new Centre for Professional Development committee.

Julie McDonald believes educating the next generation of agricultural leaders is key to securing Australia’s agricultural future.

“I have a particular interest in the education and mentoring of our sector’s up and coming leaders, and Marcus Oldham is fertile ground for these young minds.

“Marcus stands alone when it comes to engagement with students, educational and personal support, and culture. The small class sizes, face-to-face learning, and extra-curricular offerings, such as Marcus Minds, hold enormous appeal.

“Students show commitment to agriculture through their prior years of industry work. This experience, and the interview process, encourages them to consider how to gain the most from the Marcus experience.”

Showing she is willing to walk the talk, Julie did the Rural Leadership Program last year to gain a deeper understanding of the College culture she kept hearing about, and "to pick up some leadership tips".

“Beyond university, my own career and industry progression has largely been through experience, so this was new to me.

“The MORLP has a focus on discovering more about our own leadership style, our motives, strengths, values, and awareness.

“I have taken so much away in terms of my own approach to leadership, such is the style of the course. And I have a new group of friends."

Julie is excited to be on the committee of the new CPD.

“The opportunity for the College to grow programs that reach further into our industry, both on campus and into the regions, is enormous.

“Marcus’ reputation means the CPD is well positioned to expand its contribution to the sector.”

Photography: Hannah Hacon DipAA'97. Courtesy Graziher. julie.mcdonald@mdh.net.au

Have you heard?

If you haven’t tuned in yet, listen to the AgTalk Podcast with Centre for Professional Development Director, David Cornish.

David interviews leading identities in agriculture, talking about issues that impact the agribusiness sector.

Previous guests to the podcasts include John Francis on farm profit drivers, Nigel Kerin from Kerin Poll Merino Stud talking about how success is a very poor teacher and Professor Richard Eckard discussing soil carbon, and how to sort the wheat from the chaff.

AgTalk is available on iTunes, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platforms.

Join the conversation with David and agribusiness economists, industry experts, farm consultants and commodity pricing experts as they cover topics and developments in the food and agribusiness sectors.

More than just a movie

'Just a Farmer' – a powerfully honest film about the tragedy and triumph of Australian farming life, makes it's debut.

By Simone Dalton.

courtesy of Leila McDougall.

When it comes to rural mental health messages no one embraces Marcus Oldham’s ‘We mean business’ philosophy like Leila and Sean McDougall AdDipFBM’11.

After a decade tirelessly championing the cause through their annual event, Mellow in the Yellow, the Tatyoon farming couple have taken things to a whole new height.

Inspired by excessive Netflix viewing during lockdown, they have written and produced feature film Just a Farmer about the tragedy and triumph of Australian farming life. It honestly and powerfully follows the aftermath of suicide, including the silence, the denial, and coping mechanisms.

Not only did the McDougalls source the funding, but the film was also shot on their property and Leila played a leading role. Sean showed his versatility, acting and worked as stock wrangler, cameraman, farming expert and cleaner.

Leila said she and Sean were committed to ensuring farming and rural life were realistically portrayed.

“No other film has probably had a farmer on set every day to make it as authentic.”

Their daughter Vivien, the family’s poddy calf, and plenty of Tatyoon local extras, all make appearances.

Reviews from its March release describe Just a Farmer as, ‘very much admired’, ‘one of the most important films of recent times’ and ‘authentic, brave and compassionate’.

Leila admits it was not an easy project, but her parents’ “there is no such thing as can’t” mantra helped sustain them through the process,

The seven weeks of shooting in 2023 involved 60 crew, and followed several years of writing, editing, finding a suitable director, and learning to act.

Director Simon Lyndon lived for three months on-farm so he could “get to know the locals”.

Having learned plenty about the film industry, production, and distribution, Leila did not rule out doing it again… albeit differently.

“I love the idea of sharing Australian stories and as Margot Robbie said, if there are no roles out there, you have got to make your own.”

If you are interested in hosting a screening in your community, please contact Leila at leila@vampaddockproductions.com seanmcdougall20@gmail.com

‘Very much admired’ ‘Authentic, brave and compassionate’ ‘One of the most important films of recent times’

Photo

Bringing riding and business together

by Jessica Grant

Victorian Eventer Molly Lines is galloping towards a successful career in the Equestrian Industry with the Marcus Oldham Equine Business Management course.

Born into a family of horse lovers, Molly’s passion for horses was established at a young age. At three years old, Molly’s mum signed her up at Mansfield Pony Club with her pony Tinky Winky, where her love for eventing took hold. While Molly may have taken a small interlude from jumping at a young age, after a few falls and broken bones, by the time she was old enough to compete in eventing she was rearing to go. With her superstar Welsh A pony Wyann Rockstar, Molly began her eventing career and rose through the ranks. Riding a variety of ponies along the way, it wasn’t long before Molly needed a bigger horse and so her journey with Off The Track Thoroughbreds began.

Partnered with her Off The Track Thoroughbred Tadpole, Molly has been riding the wave of success. Purchased from Hayley Coman as a six year old when Molly was only 14, the

“I was really excited about being able to have my horses right there with me while I was studying and learning how to make a living out of this sport that is so expensive.”

two have risen together from Pony Club Grade 3 to CCI4*. In that time, Molly and Tadpole have achieved some fantastic results, including wins at CCI4* level and representing Australia at the Oceania Championships in New Zealand this year.

After working part time as a Vet Nurse/Assistant and competing during her pre-entry experience year in 2023, Molly travelled to Surrey, England where she was based with Eventing legend Pippa Funnel. While overseas, Molly realised that working with horses was something she wanted to make a career out of, but realised she'd go further with a formal equine business qualification.

Molly commenced at Marcus this year, enrolled in the Advanced Diploma of Equine Business Management. Competing at an elite level, studying at Marcus has been the perfect solution for Molly, who has taken her two competition horses to the college with her – “I was really excited about being able to have my horses right there with me while I was studying and learning how to make a living out of this sport that is so expensive”.

Putting people first

Photos: Angie Roe Photography

Malcolm McCusker and Peter Hewlett discuss the sowing of their 18th crop together.

As the afternoon draws to a close across the vast paddocks of Newdale, near New Norcia, WA, two men stand together, quietly acknowledging the need for rain to get the crop off to a good start.

It’s early April and the 2024 sowing program at Newdale, for Martindale Pty Ltd, has begun with dry seeding of canola, under the expertise of farm manager Peter Hewlett DipFM’93.

Farm owner Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC, has long admired life on the land, although mostly at arm’s length, having successfully carved out a brilliant career in WA’s legal profession as a lawyer and barrister.

Such is the relationship and mutual respect forged over 17 years together, that few words are necessary between Malcolm and Peter.

“We are about to sow our 18th crop, and I expect there will be many more to come,” says Peter.

He says the support of Malcolm and Tonya McCusker, who put their people first, is key to the success of the business.

“That attitude has well and truly rubbed off on me. People first, strategy second, is what seems to work best.”

Producing top level agricultural professionals was a key driver in the McCuskers’ decision to support the College’s 45-bed student accommodation project. Through their Charitable Foundation, they have generously donated $1 million, to support the College’s residential expansion.

“ We’re keen to support Marcus Oldham, which seems to have grown stronger and stronger.”

With high demand for places, and not enough facilities to house students, Malcolm says the donation to Marcus is an investment in Australia’s agricultural future.

“We’re keen to support Marcus Oldham, which seems to have grown stronger and stronger.

“It is very important to us, that it takes in students from all around Australia.

“Farmers are producing things that people need, you can see what you are doing, and the benefits it brings to Australia.

“Without farmers we couldn’t live.”

The McCusker name is infused in the WA landscape, providing years of philanthropic support for research, and development projects, improving best practice, and preservation efforts in farming and pastoral history.

Malcolm and his father Sir James McCusker, a well-known Western Australian banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, began investing in land development and agriculture in the 1960s.

Starting with commercial cattle at Gingin in 1963, then sheep at Gillingarra from 1968 to 1974, they purchased Newdale as an undeveloped property of 5,400ha in 1973. Newdale was developed over the following years, acquiring land to build the 12,000ha crop and sheep enterprise it is today.

The 3500 sq km Landor cattle station in WA’s Gascoyne, and 3470 sq km Boolardy sheep station in the Murchison, were added from the late 1980s to 1998.

Martindale started and operated a Murray Grey stud at Bindoon, WA, with cattle bought from the Gadd and Sutherland studs in Wodonga, VIC.

The Martindale Research Project, for agricultural research, was established and funded by the McCuskers from 1985 to 1994, in partnership with the University of Western Australia (UWA) and the WA Department of Agriculture.

The project aimed to improve productivity along WA’s mid coastal plain, conducting experiments, including successful trials with Tagasaste trees for fodder, and the reduction of Annual Ryegrass Toxicity in pasture.

As the 31st Governor of Western Australia (2011-2014) Malcolm McCusker epitomised excellence in public service, supporting numerous charities. He donated his entire Governor’s salary to charity.

WA philanthropists Malcolm and Tonya McCusker at their New Norcia property, Newdale, have supported the College's student residential expansion program.

Malcolm and his father were engaged in significant philanthropy from the early 1980s, with Malcolm continuing that tradition after Sir James’ death in 1995.

His wife Tonya joined him as a co-trustee in 2006, and in 2017 Malcolm, Tonya, and his sister Carolyn McCusker established the McCusker Charitable Foundation, supporting medical research and science, aged care, education, young people, the Arts, and agriculture.

Board member and administrator, Tonya says the Foundation could see the benefit of funding Marcus’ new student accommodation facility.

“Everyone was supportive straight away, because they recognised the importance of growing the number of young agricultural managers in the industry.

“We are really hoping to help increase the numbers at Marcus Oldham.”

Peter Hewlett penning lambs for market.

Graduates will need plenty of grit...

Martindale manager Peter Hewlett DipFM’93, reflects on his time at Marcus, admitting the skills gained from his attendance were significant.

“It wasn’t just the classroom and social contact that were memorable. The College offered a good blend of theory and practical application.

“The regular farm visits to real-life situations of farming enterprises were immeasurable in importance.”

Peter says that agriculture seems to lag behind other business sectors in regard to its compliance, safety and reporting.

“However, these challenges are upon us now, requiring greater professionalism and time.

“I think Marcus will give future graduates a better grounding than most, to tackle those challenges.

“Graduates won’t be experts on everything; however, they will be comfortable making good decisions. They will have confidence in seeking advice in the right areas.”

Peter explains when he graduated 30 years ago, students were not exposed to the level of political, social, and human elements they are now.

“Future graduates are going to be stepping into more headwinds than previous graduates, and more likely greater business scale.

“It will require greater educational exposure and plenty of grit. I believe the grit is the key,” he says, heading to check the penned mob of lambs destined to market in the morning.

“I think Marcus will give future graduates a better grounding than most, to tackle new challenges.”

Peter Hewlett DipFM’93 is manager of Martindale Pty Ltd, owned by Malcolm McCusker.

Off and

Studying Equine Business Management at Marcus helped put Kate on the right track.

by Danny Power

For Kate Austin DipEM'18, BB(Agri)'22, working in Australia’s leading horse racing stable was furthest from her mind when she embarked on a business course at Brisbane University in 2013.

That was even more the case when 12 months later, a disillusioned Austin fell out of love with university, deferred her course before giving it all away to mix working as a legal assistant with her love of competing in the equestrian disciplines of dressage and eventing.

A decade on, an invigorated and settled 28-year-old Austin has been firmly entrenched in Melbourne working for Ciaron Maher Racing in its areas of bloodstock and client management.

She credits her success to an intuitive decision to apply for for a place in Equine Business Management at Marcus.

Austin admits she was “drifting along” in her working life, with the need for a new challenge. Combining business studies with equine studies seemed the perfect DNA fit for a girl whose mother Susan was a passionate equestrian and father Andrew was an accountant.

Austin loved her time at Marcus and thrived. “The intensity of the studies at Marcus Oldham is what appealed to me. Every day there was something happening, something different to learn and to do, along with the work-experience placements that were organised through the College’s network of contacts,” she said.

It was a work-experience placement, organised through her lecturer, Katrina Wood DipHBM'06, BB(Agri)'15 that helped navigate an entry role into the industry. She was placed with international racing and breeding outfit, Godolphin, at its Hunter Valley breeding farm, Kelvinside. From there an interest was sparked in thoroughbred racing and breeding, and gave Austin the opportunity to combine her two passions in her working life – horses and business.

“ Marcus opened my eyes to the racing industry.”

"After that, Marcus Oldham organised for me to do a season at Coolmore Stud where I worked in the office for the first couple of weeks, but became more hands-on during foaling season, which is something I really wanted to do and it was

a great experience, living and working on the farm (at Jerry’s Plains in the Hunter Valley),” she said.

Importantly, during Austin’s initial time at Godolphin, she met Will Bourne AssocDA'14, who was selling stallion nominations. Bourne, son of prominent Seymour trainer David Bourne, went on to fill the prime position of Head of Bloodstock with the training partnership of Maher and David Eustace, and it was his recommendation that Austin join the team after she had completed the Marcus' Associate Degree of Agribusiness, which extended to a Bachelor of Agribusiness that she graduated from in 2021.

For Austin, the highlights of her time at Marcus, apart from the hands-on horse tuition, are embodied by the relationships she has formed, either within the course and through the contacts she has made in the wider community, which included the equine accountancy firm, Carrazzo Consultancy, where she worked as an intern in 2020.

“I started working as a bloodstock assistant in December 2020, which required attending sales, inspecting yearlings, and the important task of taking note of which owners had taken shares in the different yearlings.

“ She is incredibly diligent, very thorough, very loyal and a very hard worker. There is no doubt that with the connections she has made through Marcus Oldham, and her placements and the networking, she developed a very good idea about the racing industry.”

“In the past six months, my role has been more defined in the bloodstock area and in client relations, looking after our key owners.”

Bourne said that Austin is a perfect fit for Ciaron Maher Racing because of her natural demeanour, vivaciousness, organisation skills and a healthy gift of the gab makes her brilliant in client relations in a business as vast at Ciaron Maher Racing.

“We have between 3000 and 4000 owners on the books, but Kate’s job is to service the needs of a core group of 60 or so high-end clients, which she does very well,” he said.

“She is incredibly diligent, very thorough, very loyal and a very hard worker. There is no doubt that with the connections she has made through Marcus Oldham, and her placements and the networking, she developed a very good idea about the racing industry.”

Austin works closely with Bourne in the bloodstock side of the business which includes considerable travel during the

yearling sale season, as well has inspecting Maher-trainer horses at one of its six properties in Victoria and New South Wales, including the recently acquired Bong Bong Farm, a 97 ha property that houses four architecturally designed barns containing 61 boxes, 1250-metre turf and sand training tracks, a swimming pool, a hyperbaric chamber, an equine spa, treadmills and an ocean walker.

Bong Bong Farm complements Maher’s Warwick Farm stables and beach-training complex in Newcastle. In Melbourne, Austin attends the main stables at the Cranbourne training centre, the Ballarat training stables and a beach and sand-track rest and recuperation property on the Mornington Peninsula.

Shortly, Austin will relocate to NSW full time and work from the Bong Bong property – an exciting chance to further her skills and experience with one of the Australia’s leading trainers.

kateaustin2709@gmail.com

The connect effect

Alumni and the broader Marcus community have enjoyed four Marcus Connect Tour events this year, held in southern NSW and northern QLD.

Orange, NSW – 7 March 2024

The College hosted three Connect functions in Deniliquin, Orange, and Wagga Wagga, NSW, during March, and in Rockhampton QLD in May. The aim of the Connect Tours is to share campus updates with Alumni, parents, and friends of the College, and to listen to ideas about how we can stay connected.

Photos: Tania Kuegler

Charlie Watson BB(Agri)’23 and Jack Harris BB(Agri)’21

Janet and John de Bomford AssocDipFM'84 and Kris Hinck

John Campbell DipFM’68 and Tom Campbell

Catherine Campbell and Annabelle Hamilton BB(Agri)’23

Marcus Oldham College Principal Andrew Baker

All evenings were well-attended, and there was a celebratory air of pride amongst the Alumni and the parents of current and former students.

Rob McGavin AdCertAA’93 (College Chair), James Bufton DipFM’94 (Deputy Chair and Chair of Foundation) and Principal Andrew Baker gave presentations at each function. They were joined by Deputy Principal Elizabeth Gubbins and Tim McGavin DipAA’99, supporter of the Marcus Minds Project (MMP).

It was a delight to have College Council member Stuart Johnston attend in Orange, and Council member Howard Hanson DipFM’94 in Wagga Wagga.

NSW – 6 March 2024

MARCUS MINDS

A Marcus Minds session featured before the NSW events, led by Kris Hinck, a high-performance sport coach and university lecturer. Kris focused on building skills for overcoming the inevitable challenges of farming and agriculture and maintaining high performance.

The Marcus Minds content and modules are available on the website – marcusminds.com

Marcus Minds will be delivered through the Centre for Professional Development (CPD) and tailored to suit current students and Alumni.

Deniliquin,

Photos: Zowie Crump

Andrew Sleigh DipFM’83 and Deputy Principal Elizabeth Gubbins

Richard Simpson DipFM’93 and Michael Bull from Conargo

Deputy Chair James Bufton DipFM’94, Principal Andrew Baker and Jack Hawkins DipFM’75

Maria Muldoon, Claire Bull and Chair Rob McGavin AdCertAA’93

The connect effect

Wagga Wagga, NSW – 8 March 2024

Agribusiness student

In 2024 Marcus Connect is visiting:

AUGUST

15 – Horsham, VIC

16 – Geelong, VIC

SEPTEMBER

6 – Adelaide, SA

To RSVP to a Marcus Connect event, use the QR code

*See MOCOSA Facebook page for any updates.

Photos: Matt Beaver

Master of

Harry Hosegood GCertAgri’21, Andrew Hannaford and Trevor Howard.

Current parent Jim Coe and Mark Stanham DipFM’70

Tim McGavin DipAA’99 and Jack Kimpton DipAgri’19

Current parents Christine Howard and Michelle Kennett

Nadine O’Sullivan-Clark AdCertHBM’93 and Amber Jeffery AdCertHBM’93.

Sam Buntin AssocDFBM’18, Ben Goldsworthy BB(Agri)’19 and Megan Russell.

Students on Tour

Marcus students spread their wings on tour across Australia.

Equine Business Management

EBM toured central Victoria with James Lang, Director of Equine Business Management and Roberta MacLeod, Associate Lecturer Equine Business Management.

EBM visited: Inglis Sales Complex, Macedon Lodge, Equivets, Northwood Park, Swettenham Stud, Vanessa Hawkins’ Equine Sports Breeding, Advika Park, Skye Park Rugs, Racing Hearts Equine Assisted Therapy, Ciaron Maher Racing and Lever Equestrian.

“The tour provided us with opportunities to network with leading professionals within the industry and a hands-on learning experience to understand what it takes to run successful and profitable businesses. The most valuable piece of knowledge I gained was the vast range of pathways within the equine industry, made possible by studying here at Marcus Oldham.”

- Bianca Deery EBM.

Equine assisted therapy at Racing Hearts.

Vanessa Hawkins, breeder of Irish Sport Horses, at Euroa Horse Park.

Equine students visited Swettenham Stud at Nagambie with Marcus Heritage.

Students watching veterinarian Dr Emma Nicol DipHBM'98 scanning a pregnant mare at Equivets.

Students on tour

FM1

FM1 toured South Gippsland with Duncan Ashby, Accounting and Finance Lecturer, Lisa Gowers, Librarian and Andrew Etherton, Agronomy Lecturer, visiting Hawkes Vegetables, Irwin Stockfeeds, Trevor Caithness, Gippsland Agricultural Group Inc., Bonaccord Ingram Co., Lakes Entrance Fishermen’s Co-op (LEFCOL), Dicky Bill Australia, Rowan Paulet, Scott Langley, Ellinbank Research Farm and Brown’s Fertilisers.

Sarah Pearce FM1 learnt about new enterprises –

"This tour was beneficial, to not only see enterprises we are not familiar with, but also to understand in detail what makes them work and what are their threats. We saw a holistic view of the agricultural industry. It challenged what we already know, what we thought we knew, and brought in new information about industries we haven’t had much to do with. It was interesting to see that one person’s challenge could be another enterprise’s strength. We saw how first-generation farmers had challenged the ‘norm’ to make their business successful, and how multi-generational businesses have diversified to meet the demands of today’s markets."

FM3

FM3 toured the NSW Riverina with Matt Robertson, Livestock Production and Management Lecturer, Scott Vanderkley, ICT Manager and Lecturer, and Patrick Amos, Agronomy Lecturer, visiting Teys / Cargill Feedlot, Kagome Australia, Murray Cod Australia Ltd, Commins Bros Southern Cotton Gin, Voyager Craft Malt, Kooba Ag, The Marcus Minds Project, Hell’s Gate Station, ECS Botanics and Boundary Bend Olives & Oil Processing Facility.

Oscar Klose FM3 appreciated the diversity of businesses –"We saw a diverse array of businesses and business structures, ranging from large multi-national corporations to family farms, and other corporate structures. We saw different examples of business expansion. In one business, two brothers utilised external partnerships to diversify into enterprises in which they were not experts. They created an incredibly diverse and successful business, ranging from irrigated cropping to fish farming, to a restaurant on the farm. This visit showed the value of external expertise and how opportunities can present themselves when not expected."

Fodder Beet Crop at Langley Farms

FM3 students with Roger Commins at Southern Cotton

Sniffing around Browns Fertlisers

Touring the cotton gin

Trevor Caithness talks drainage on his farm

FM3 students with Glenn Lok, the General Manager at Kooba Ag

AG1

AG1 toured western Victoria and south-east South Australia, with Cleo Gower, Director of Agriculture and Agribusiness, David Cornish, Director of the Centre for Professional Development and Chris Walsh, Lecturer in Professional Skills, visiting Dunkeld Pastoral Co, JBS Bordertown, Smartgroup, Kurra-Wirra Merino and cattle stud, Di Giorgios Wines, Donovan’s Dairy, Yumbah Aquaculture and Warrnambool Cheese & Butter Factory.

Diversification and autonomy were themes for Hugh Plowman AG1 –

"Our tour to South Australia and western Victoria exposed us to many different farming practices and businesses. A highlight was the visit to Smart Farms in Keith, SA. This was extremely insightful, as Brendon Smart exposed us to the importance of allowing autonomy within a business, and demonstrated how a corporate-style business structure has allowed his business to expand and diversify. The businesses we visited all showed common themes around the importance of diversification, succession planning, trust among employees and target marketing. Thank you to all the businesses that gave up their time and the College staff who led the tour."

AG2

AG2 toured north-east Victoria and southern NSW with Deanne Whelan, Senior Lecturer Accounting, Finance and Tax, Sherryn Jennings, Lecturer in Business Management and Michael Dacres-Manning, Lecturer in International Trade, visiting HG Turf, Koala Cherries Pty Ltd, Feathertop Winery, Mountain Milk Dairy Co-operative, Milawa Cheese, SAILS (Southern Australian International Livestock Services), Lambpro Partnership, Jayfields Nursery, Rennylea Pastoral Company, Holbrook Paddock Eggs and Yield Australia. Tom Cruikshank AG2 found the tour motivating –

"The Agribusiness domestic tour was a valuable and engaging experience that allowed us to explore many different aspects of business, that are not so easily seen in the classroom. Whether navigating the intricacies of a family operation, the benefits of new technology, or being exposed to different management and leadership systems, each visit was insightful. Seeing industry experts excelling in their various enterprises and sectors creates a sense of excitement and motivation for my career next year."

AG2 students enjoying dinner in Albury

AG1 students at Dunkeld Pastoral

AG1 students at Donovans Dairy

Kelly Glass from Jayfields Nursery speaks to the students

Touring the Mountain Milk Dairy Co-operative

AG1 students visit Di Giorgios Winery

EVENTS Reunions

50+ YEARS

Class of 1972

A belated 50th reunion was held on Saturday 9 March for the 1972 Farm Management cohort.

Alumni came to the College campus from every state, some with their partners. Being a diverse group the majority of us had not seen one another or been back to the College for 52 years.

From a distance, and ignoring girth measurements, facial recognition began to kick in with surprising accuracy. By the time we reached the familiar surroundings of our old dining room, put on our name tags and had a couple of drinks the mateship and camaraderie of 52 years ago was alive and well. Our thanks to Lyn Cameron and her team for looking after us with a lovely meal and allowing us to turn the lights off when we finished. With Ivo Dean watching on, from his vantage point on the wall, good behaviour was assured.

On Sunday morning we were privileged to have Andrew Baker conduct a tour of the College. Sorry AB if we dawdled, but it was mainly in awe of the buildings and the facilities that students have today and not due to our advancing years. Morning tea followed and then down to the Waurn Ponds for lunch and spend a few more hours in very pleasant company.

All agreed to maintain the momentum by keeping in contact and having another reunion in the near future.

Apart from our group reconnecting and having our reunion at the College, the tour was another highlight, especially getting an insight to future expectations and seeing first hand, why Marcus Oldham is the benchmark for Agricultural Colleges in Australia.

Rob Rush rushes38@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE

1967 graduates have decided to hold reunions every second year. This year Alumni will gather on the Fleurieu Peninsula in SA on 17 & 18 October. Contact: Phil Reid at philkreid@gmail.com or 0408 856 074, or Jack Hassell at gjhassell@bigpond.com or 0428 667 027.

1969 – 55 years and still going strong reunion in Mooloolaba. Week commencing 21 October with reunion dinner on Tuesday 22 October. Contact: Colin Beckett at colin@quadrantaustralia.com or 0412 470 755

2012 cohort is organising a reunion for September 21 at MOC. Contact: Dan Korff at dan.korff@me.com or 0447 418 485

The College is happy to host reunions, be sure to let the College know how you can be contacted. Please update your details by going to marcusoldham.vic.edu.au/alumni/update-your-details, or by scanning the code on this page. For further information about reunions email: alumni@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

Dave Glasson, Ian Taylor, Ewen Sutherland and Quentin Wright.

Anthony Sim and John Waller.

L to R: Sid Austin, Rob Rush, Andy Hemming, Owen Grieve, Rob England, Dave Reid, Ian Smith, Errol Cotton-Stapleton, John Waller, Ewen Sutherland and Pete Landale.

Class of 1978

On 8 February, 2024, the 1978 “Ratpack” gathered for an unofficial reunion in Launceston. There were 17 Diploma of Farm Management Alumni who gathered for a long weekend of activities. Organiser Nick Mainwaring DipFM’78 was impressed that 11 partners and wives also joined the gathering to “hear the stories …. again”. They kicked off on Thursday night in a bar, sampling the best of Launceston’s craft beers, which were not to everyone’s taste apparently. The formal dinner on Friday night was held at the Silo Hotel. Guest speaker Ian Sauer OAM DipFM’80

and

1993 Equine Reunion

outlined his time since leaving Marcus, culminating in his election to President of the TasFarmers (originally Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association) in March 2022. Ian spoke about the varied paths that the students of the late 70s had taken since leaving the College, with the DipFM tucked under their arms! The reunion concluded on Saturday with lunch in a vineyard and the evening debriefing at a local watering hole. Overall, a very successful weekend with everyone keen to do it again before they are all using Zimmer frames.

nick.mainwaring@bigpond.com

The 1978 Ratpackers.

Back row: Peter Brookman, Sandy Gibson, David McFarlane, Jim Downer, Warwick O'Connor, John Hindmarsh

Middle row: Steve Neiberding, Nick Mainwaring, Stuart Archer, Dennis Chandler, Alex Brettingham-Moore, Jim Salter, Robert Burbury, Jack Tansley

Front row: John Eastoe, Rod Graham, Bill Fairbairn

A small group of Horse Business Management Alumni enjoyed the 1993 reunion at Little Creatures in Geelong on 25 November 2023.

Madeleine Haccius and Josie Keam (Naylor) both AdCertHBM’94 travelled from WA for the event.

Bill Fairbairn and Sandy Gibson

Warwick O’Connor and Alex Brettingham-Moore

Melissa Leist (Kingham) and Priscilla Mendelson

Steve Neiberding

Jim Salter

Madeleine Haccius and Des Ryan AdCertHBM'92 and former Marcus lecturer.

Priscilla Mendelson, Melissa Leist (Kingham), James Williams, Des Ryan, Pip Atherstone-Reid, Fleur Cushman, Madeleine Haccius and Josie Keam (Naylor)

Meet the Student Executive

Ed Cox

AG2, Social Co-Captain

Where have you come from?

I was raised in Coolah, central NSW. Before Marcus I was working with cattle in the Gulf of Australia, and then expanded my knowledge by working in the Hunter Valley, NSW, as I am passionate about rural life and livestock.

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

I discovered Marcus through word of mouth, and after getting an understanding about lecture-based education, I was certain it was the right choice for me.

What has been a highlight so far?

Without a doubt, the people you meet and the connections that are made is what I think attracts students to Marcus. Also being a coach for the Marcus Meat Judging Team is a great experience for me.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

With the knowledge of new markets and commodities that I have learnt studying at Marcus, I am now keeping my options very open, taking a “willing-to-learn” attitude into all fields.

Kai De Lacy

AG2, Vice President

Where have you come from?

I grew up near a small town called Nungarin, in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia, on a broadacre cropping farm, with a mix of merinos.

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

After hearing many stories from friends and Alumni and acknowledging the industry's rapid advancements and growing challenges post-school, I enrolled in Marcus' Agribusiness course to expand my skills, knowledge, and network, preparing myself better for a future in agriculture.

What has been a highlight so far?

A highlight of my Marcus journey so far has been the study tours, where we've learned about a diverse array of challenges in the agricultural industry, and the various approaches people have toward solving them.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

Post-Marcus, I aim to return to the family farm, implementing and testing new practices to enhance our business in the current climate. Additionally, I intend to engage in the grain supply chain, whether through research or participation in industry groups, to contribute to the improvement of the industry as a whole.

Megan Kennett FM3, President

Where have you come from?

I spent my childhood in Harden NSW. Since graduating from high school at Kinross in Orange, I have been a gypsy travelling around Australia, exploring the many different facets of agriculture.

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

I was attracted to Marcus because of its close-knit community of like-minded yet diverse people who choose to come to the College. The face-to-face learning at Marcus is a quality you don’t get anywhere else, and a big part of why I chose to study at Marcus.

What has been a highlight so far?

My 2024 highlight so far has been getting to know and make some amazing memories with this year’s Marcus family. I’ve also loved getting to step up into my leadership role, organising exciting things for the year to come and ensuring everyone at feels at home whilst at Marcus.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

After graduating from Marcus Oldham, I’m hoping to go exploring overseas to increase the depth of my experience with other cultures and agricultural practices. However, long-term I’d love to immerse myself in the Australian beef industry.

Indi Allen

AG2, Treasurer

Where have you come from?

I grew up on a small block in south-west Victoria, and more recently my family has moved to the lovely coastal town of Port Fairy. Luckily for me, that’s just a 2-hour trip from Marcus.

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

The main driver for wanting to study at Marcus is the way the agribusiness course is structured, in terms of every business subject being heavily focused on the agriculture industry. Now that I’m here the additional benefits of making extremely close friends, long-term connections, and the many opportunities outside of classes has affirmed my choice.

What has been a highlight so far?

Touring New Zealand in 2023 was a fantastic experience. It opened mine and my peer’s eyes to what might be coming for the Australian agriculture industry, particularly in terms of environmental regulation. This year’s guest speakers have also been a highlight. Hearing from David Littleproud, Malcolm Turnbull and Rob Scott have been particularly memorable.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

I’m still tossing up what I will do after Marcus; however, I think agri-banking, asset management and agricultural supply chains pique my interest the most. I am also keen to fit in some overseas travel.

Ben Coe

FM3, Social

Co-Captain

Where have you come from?

I’m from Eurongilly, a small district north of Wagga Wagga, NSW. I grew up on a mixed cattle and cropping operation.

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

The opportunities you get, and the diversity in the people you meet at Marcus Oldham, is something that always appealed to me. The course structure was perfect for me; being so engaging, but also fast-tracking degrees by being much more intensive than other universities.

What has been a highlight so far?

The highlight is the people. One of my favourite parts of Marcus, is the amount of like-minded people you meet each year, as well as the crossover with classes, giving you a chance to meet so many people in the time you’re at the college.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

I am hoping to go back to the family farm and focus on applying the strategies and contacts from my time at Marcus, to take our beef operation to the next level in regard to branding and marketing.

Tom Aveyard

FM3, Sports Captain

Where have you come from?

I grew up on a family mixed sheep and cropping operation in Trundle, NSW. After boarding school in Sydney, I was eager to pursue my passion for agriculture on a cattle station in northern Queensland for a year, followed by a year on our family farm prior to starting my Bachelor of Business (Agriculture).

What attracted you to studying at Marcus?

The unique structure and content of the course, as well as a diverse range of people I would meet attracted me to Marcus.

The accelerated course will allow me to get back into the workforce earlier, with an extensive network of people passionate about the agricultural industry with me.

What has been a highlight so far?

The connections made with like-minded students and experiences shared together both in the classroom and socially, as well as the education provided by industry-leading staff that are both practical and theoretical have been highlights.

What are you hoping to do after Marcus?

When I graduate, I am planning to return to our family farming operation and implement the financial knowledge gained during my studies at Marcus, which will improve our production efficiency.

In recognition of...

Above & beyond an AM Mike Stephens

Dr Mike Stephens DipFM’66, Grad of Exc ’97 MSc, PhD, FAICD, FIAIA-Cag, CF, can now add AM to his impressive list of post nominals, as a Member of the Order of Australia.

Mike received the AM in this year’s Australia Day Honour List for significant service to primary industry and to the community. Individuals are appointed an AM for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group.

Last year Mike received the Howard Yelland Award from the Australian Beef Industry Foundation (ABIF), for his service to the beef industry, that is “above and beyond” a normal role. mstephens@meridian-ag.com.au

Community & education OAM Bruce Wilson

Bruce Wilson DipFM’71, Grad of Exc’98, received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for service to the community and to agricultural education in the 2024 Australia Day Honours.

The Marcus community know Bruce’s contribution to agricultural education well, having served on the Marcus Oldham College Council for 22 years, including 14 years as chair from 2008 to 2021.

During those years Bruce, strongly backed by his wife Judy, gave extensive service to the College. He presided over major building and refurbishment programs, including most recently The Douglas Boyd Centre and The Baillieu Wing student accommodation.

It has been said that his volunteer commitment to Marcus was equal to a day’s work per week, however he found the role was as rewarding as it was demanding.

In addition to the years of service at Marcus, Bruce was co-founder and inaugural chair of Southern Farming Systems from 1995 to 2000 and has been chair of Western Plains Pork since 1997.

Bruce and Judy now live in Barwon Heads.

bruce@murdeduke.com.au

Queensland Australian of the Year nominee

Benjamin Bjarnesen

Congratulations to Benjamin (Ben) Bjarnesen BM, DipAgri’05, the Queensland nominee for the 2024 Australian of the Year.

Ben is Senior Constable at West End Police Station, a Security & Counter-Terrorism Officer and Director at DVConnect.

He is the founder and Managing Director of the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, becoming an advocate for better services for LGBTIQ+ communities after personally experiencing domestic violence in a same-sex relationship and discovering a huge gap in available support.

A longtime operational police officer with Queensland Police Service (QPS), Ben was instrumental in helping QPS improve its response to domestic violence in LGBTIQ+ communities.

He is a Churchill Fellow, and has been named a ‘Human Rights Hero’ by the Australian Human Rights Commission, Ben was celebrated as one of Australia’s Outstanding 50 LGBTI+ Leaders by Deloitte and Google in 2020.

ben@dvafoundation.org

New Deputy Chair of Cattle Australia Adam Coffey

Adam Coffey AdDipFBM’05 has been elected Deputy Chair of Cattle Australia (CA), the national peak body for the grass-fed cattle industry.

Owner and director of Coffey Cattle Co. with wife Jacynta in Central Queensland, Adam grew up in Tasmania, and has lived and worked in most states and territories in Australia, ultimately managing extensive beef cattle operations in the live export sector.

He became a Nuffield Scholar in 2016, and a mentor in Beef Australia’s Connections Program, where he developed a passion for helping young people achieve in the industry.

In the June 2023 issue of MOCOSA, Adam said he did not come from an agricultural background, and it took a while for him to realise that was where he wanted to be.

As a jackaroo, he was told by an older station hand I could do it the hard way or go and get educated. Marcus was at the top when it came to finding that education.

“As a first-generation entrant into Australian agriculture, I feel it is my obligation to give back to the industry that has provided so much opportunity and help support and guide the success of our great sector well into the future.”

Fellow alumni George King AdCertAA’95 holds another of the seven elected Directorships for CA.

ajcoffey@hotmail.com

Ben Bjarnesen and Qld Premier, The Hon Dr Steven Miles.

The Network

MARRIAGES

Fenella & Tim

Fenella Milling BB(Agri)’21 married Tim Cassegrain in Sydney during the Australia Day weekend. The wedding ceremony at St Joseph’s Chapel, Hunters Hill was followed by a boat trip across the harbour by the bridal party, to their reception at Pier One, Dawes Point.

Fenella’s bridesmaids included Annabel Milling BB(Agri)’22 , while Alumni Charlie Harris BB(Agri)’13 and Alexander Madden BB(Agri)’12 were two of the groomsmen.

fenellamilling@yahoo.com.au

Britt & Robbie

Alumni Britt Nash DipAgri’21 and Robbie Wagner DipAgri’21 celebrated their wedding in Yeppoon, Queensland on 15 February 2024. They were joined by a strong contingent of Marcus graduates, including groomsman Ben Hughes BB(Agri)’22.

Keeden & Sarah

There was a strong contingent of Marcus Alumni at the wedding of Sarah and Keeden Mickelburough BB(Ag)’17 on 5 January 2024 at Rocklea Farm, Stonehaven.

From left to right: Liam Phillips BB(Ag)’23, James Morrison BB(Ag)’17, Hannah Vidor nee Martindale BB(Ag)’17, Jackson Koster DipAgri’14, Oliver Vidor BB(Ag)’17, Chad Baker BB(Ag)’17, Harry Stonnill BB(Ag)’17, Martin Ebbs AssocDA’15, Sam Gunn BB(Agri)’19, Jessica Brogden BB(Ag)’17, Will Bowden BB(Ag)’17, Alastair Bowman AssocDFBM’16, Centre, Sarah and Keeden Mickelburough.

Marcus Alumni in attendance at the wedding of Sarah and Keeden Mickelburough in January 2024.

Tim & Kate

Tim Drury DipAgri’20 married Kate Pini on 3 March 2023 at the family property ‘Condabri’, Miles QLD. Tim became the third of his four brothers to be married at Condabri. He’s also the third of brothers Lachlan and Will Drury DipAgri’18 to marry a ‘Kate’; in Will’s case Alumni Kate (nee Wagner) DipAgri’18.

Other Marcus Alumni in the wedding in the wedding party were Tim Mitchell BB(Agri)’20 and Charlie Upton BB(Ag)’21, while the bride’s brother Bryce Pini BB(Ag)’20 gave a speech at the reception. tim.drury@condabri.com.au

Lucy & Will

There were many Marcus friends who celebrated the marriage of Lucy Fenton AssocDFBM’18 and Will Howse BB(Ag)’20 at the Fenton’s family property at Vasey on 16 February 2024. Henry Falkenberg BB(Ag)’20 was a groomsman for Will. The couple met at Marcus in 2018 and started working together at Vasey Farm in July 2023.

Tim & Gemma

ENGAGEMENTS

Kari & Will

Will Evans proposed to Kari Moffat BB(Agri)’17 while holidaying on Fraser Island this year. The couple are based in Darwin. Kari joined large-scale agricultural investment firm AAM as the company’s new sustainability manager in June 2023. Will is the CEO of Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association. kari.moffat@gmail.com

Andie & Jack

Alice & Clancy

Andie Murphy AssocDFBM’18 met Jack Sangster working at Dalgonally Station north of Julia Creek QLD. They now live at Andie’s family farm, Hillview Gundagai, NSW.

Jack proposed on 5 February while they were holidaying in Noosa. andieelouisemurphy@gmail.com

An October wedding in Toowoomba QLD is planned for Alice Mort BB(Agri)’18 and fiancé Clancy Sheehan. They are based in Roma, QLD, where Alice is the NAB Agribusiness Manager and Clancy is an electrician. alicemort96@gmail.com

Congratulations to Tim Mitchell BB(Ag)’20 and Gemma Hoy on their engagement in Coffs Harbour. The couple have been together since 2014, and are both living and working in Miles, QLD. Their wedding was on 15 March 2024.

Jack & Jacqueline

Congratulations to Jack Grieve DipAgri’14 and Jacqueline Grinsell MAgri’23 on their engagement in July 2023 in Brisbane. Jack was relieved Jacqueline’s parents gave him the green light, and now they are planning their wedding in Brisbane in July 2024. j.grinsell@outlook.com and jackogrieve@hotmail.com

BIRTHS

Annabelle Drury

Matilda Reid

Matilda Julia Reid was born at the Warrnambool Base Hospital on 18 January 2024.

Congratulations to parents Caroline and Sam Reid BB(Ag)’15 sdreid58@gmail.com

Angus River Rhoden

Dom Rhoden DipHBM’14, Racing Manager at Lindsay Park Racing introduced his seven-day-old son Angus River Rhoden to Mr Brightside. Dom and his partner Alice Nixon welcomed Angus on 15 February 2024 at Wangaratta Hospital.

Will Drury DipAgri’18 and Kate Drury nee Wagner DipAgri’18 welcomed Annabelle in July 2023, a new baby sister for Primrose and Walter. wkdrury@outlook.com

Dougal Norman

Congratulations to Alex Norman nee Purcell BB(Agri)’15 and Alex Norman AdDipFBM’12 on the birth of Dougal Francis Norman at Tamworth Hospital on 29 November 2023. He is a little brother to Penelope (4 years old).

Dougal was baptised on 17 February 2024 with Marcus Oldham Alumni Joseph Norman AdDipFBM’16 and Alexandra Archer nee Webster BB(Agri)’14 as his godparents. alexandra.l.purcell@gmail.com

David Blight

2/2/1966 – 6/3/2024

We lost a good mate earlier this year to MND. He fought the disease all the way.

David Blight DipFM'83 – Blighty, Dagwood, Sandy, as he was known, came from Whitton in NSW turning up at Marcus in his new Ute in 1985. He settled into College life quickly. He loved anything with wheels - cars, especially fast ones, and if they were loud, that was even better.

Following his time at Marcus, Blighty worked as Assistant Manager at ‘Moleen’, Wee Waa, growing cotton. He developed a strong acumen for business and held positions as sales and marketing manager for Tavella Cheese, managing the food and materials division for a Japanese trading house in Sydney, and was General Manager for Australia North African Exports. He worked in Libya for extended periods, established an office in Malta and traded olive oil with Tunisia.

Blighty created a startup, DBL International, reprocessing surplus dairy products from Fonterra in New Zealand. He was also successful in starting a labour hire contracting business.

Blighty was a strong believer in education, and in addition to his Marcus training he completed a Certificate in Marketing at the University of Technology Sydney in 1989, and in 2013 graduated with a Master of International Business from Deakin University at Distinction level.

Blighty instilled the importance of education into his two children Alexander and Penelope, who are both high achievers and doing well in their professional careers. We remember Blighty’s engaging personality. He was not impressed with the woke of the world; he hated people trying to take him for a ride; he enjoyed debating politics and the banter involved.

Blighty and wife Susie had a fabulous marriage with many good times and lots of fun. Susie nurtured and supported our mate all the way through the difficult times. Blighty will be greatly missed.

Wallace (Wally) Koch

30/4/1947 – 14/4/2023

Wallace Allen Koch DipFM’66 was a boarder at Geelong College, before heading straight to attend Marcus Oldham as a student from 1965 - 1966.

He loved his time at Marcus, and always spoke fondly of the friends he made at the College, many of whom he was in contact with until his death in Hamilton last year. A few even flew in by helicopter for his memorial service, which created quite a story in the local Hamilton paper.

During his time at Marcus, Wally loved the farm tours, particularly the trip to the South Island of New Zealand. It was during this trip that Wally first encountered the Huntaway breed of dogs, and always owned one of these special dogs from that time.

One story he liked to recount was when the students lifted a staff member’s new car onto a haybale; something I’m sure does not happen now.

Wally farmed for most of his life in Nareen and Hamilton.

Sadly, Parkinsons Disease and Lewy Body Dementia took his life. While in care during the last months of his life Wally believed he was still running the farm, asking if the sheep had been crutched or the rams put out. He was a farmer to the end.

Gavin Jamieson

25/2/1943 – 8/12/2023

Gavin Jamieson DipFM’63 was one of the 14 foundation students when Marcus Oldham Farm Agricultural College opened its doors in 1962. He was just 19 years old.

After graduating, Gavin’s work took him throughout regional Victoria, accumulating a wide network of farm-based contacts that would later become invaluable to him as an apiarist.

His early career was varied; he was an insurance representative, and he worked in the agricultural chemicals industry.

A move from Mildura to Ballarat saw Gavin become involved in environmental projects and leave the chemical industry behind. In the early 1970s, Gavin became the Shire of Ballarat Council’s Environmental Officer, the first municipal environmental appointment in Australia. He held the position until 2002.

His grasp of environmental facts and legislation was formidable, calling out poor environmental practises and advocating responsible planning and management. He continued his “foundation” legacy, participating in both Landcare and catchment management authorities from their inception.

In the late ‘70s Gavin started an apiary enterprise. Beekeeping and the industry’s importance to the environment and agriculture soon became his life’s work, for which he became widely known and respected.

Simon Livingstone AssocDipFBM'87 on behalf of the 1985-1987 Farm Management Year Group – ‘Rowdy’s Hero’s’.

By Wally’s wife, Judy Koch

Gavin became involved in apiary industry politics, influencing legislation and policies through lobbying, expert submissions and leadership, including Vice-Chairman of the Victorian Apiarists Association and Victorian Farmers Federation Beekeeping Branch President.

Those who knew him say that Gavin was always on a mission to right the wrongs that he saw around him. He was a facilitator, he enthused people, had a strong sense of ethics, and he got things done. In many ways he represents the ethos of Marcus Oldham. Gavin is survived by his daughter Sally, his son Ian and their families.

By Les Sprague DipFM'63

2023 Graduate Awards

On Friday 8 December 2023 graduation was held at Costa Hall at Deakin University, Geelong Waterfront Campus. Mr Mike Logan AM gave the graduation address.

Graduation guest speaker

Mike Logan AM is originally from Narrabri in northern NSW, where he ran a cotton farming business for 30 years.

He is a professional advisory board chairman, business coach and author. He was the CEO of Dairy Connect, Chairman of Cotton Research & Development, and has served on the boards of numerous organisations.

In 2019, Mike received an Order of Australia for service to primary industry.

Advanced Diploma of Equine Business Management

The KT Equine Award for Equine Business Management Case Study – SHANNAH MUDGE

Marcus Oldham Principal’s Award for Effort and Achievement – ZAINAB HABIBULLA

Henry Dwyer Racing Award to the Dux of the Advanced Diploma of Equine Business Management – MICHAEL BLOMELY

Bachelor of Business (Agriculture)

Bachelor of Business (Agribusiness)

The Moore Australia Group Award for Agriculture Case Study – WESLEY MITCHELL

Marcus Oldham Principal’s Award for Effort and Achievement – ELIZA LUCAS

West Carr & Harvey Accountants Award for Agribusiness Case Study – MITCHELL LOLLBACK

Marcus Oldham Principal’s Award for Effort and Achievement – HOLLY BASTION

Marcus Oldham College Award to the Student President – ANGUS CROSSING

Charles Taylor Memorial Prize for Sport – MATILDA PICKARD

Marcus Oldham College and Pockley Award to the Dux of the Bachelor of Agriculture – BEN BUNGEY

Beggs Family Award to the Dux of the Bachelor of Agribusiness – HUGH DAWSON

Master of Agribusiness

Laguna Bay Pastoral Company Award to the Dux of the Master of Agribusiness – ATHENA WILLIAMSON

In Absentia:

Chase Consulting Award for the Best Graduate Certificate of Agribusiness Business Case Study – DARCY DOYLE

Sir James Darling Marcus Oldham Graduate of Excellence Award

Fleur McDonald AdCertAA’95

Fleur McDonald is an accomplished author and farmer.

With more than 20 novels published, she has a loyal fan base and multiple awards and recognition for her work. She has farmed for 27 years in Western Australia, managing a 810ha block that she share-farms with a mate.

Fleur is an advocate for rural women, especially those facing domestic violence. She founded DVassist, a not-for-profit organisation offering support for those living in regional, rural and remote Australia.

She was a finalist in the 2017 Rural Women of the Year awards and is a frequent keynote speaker on topics such as women in agriculture, rural resilience and domestic violence prevention.

She is driven by her vision of empowering rural women and raising awareness of the challenges and opportunities they face.

As the 24th Graduate of Excellence, we congratulate Fleur McDonald on this fine achievement.

Fleur presented the following speech at Graduation in December 2023.

"Thank you to the Marcus Oldham Old Scholars for this Graduate of Excellence award. And the amazing college we affectionately call Marcus. It was a privilege to meet award sponsor Andrew Farran today, and I only hope I can do justice to his name and that of Marcus Oldham.

It’s not the hallowed halls, buildings and corridors that create a college that has an enduring lifespan. It’s the people within who can pivot and move with the times; to not be afraid of change and to make decisions with the heart and ethos of the College community in mind.

I came to Marcus in 1994, enrolled in the Farm Management course, until my fiancé told me we only needed one farm manager, and that would be him. Best I went and learned how to do the books. Funnily enough, I kowtowed, thinking he was right and not-so-funnily enough, he’s not my husband anymore!

In 1994 it was illegal for a woman to be called a farmer. Women could not borrow money from a financial institution to run a farm without a male guarantor or record our occupation as farmer.

How forward thinking was Marcus Oldham then to accept women into their farm management courses?

I’ve always been one to push boundaries. After hearing more than once, ‘nah, we can’t hire you because we don’t have any jillaroo quarters,’ I decided I didn’t want to be afraid to be the only woman in the room – or paddock. I wanted to be known for my smarts rather than my gender.

I wrote some books about strong women farmers and received some nice feedback. I became brave enough to extract myself from a domestic violence relationship and use the critical thinking skills I learned at Marcus to start a domestic violence organisation specifically for rural people. I used the leadership and evaluation skills I acquired to lobby the Federal Government for a $3 million grant. And finally, eight years after my divorce, after much hard work, saving and goal setting, I used the budgeting and case studies skills to purchase my own farm, all by myself!

Marcus gave me the skills, not only to become a businesswoman, but skills to live life. All you graduates here today have that exact same grounding.

You have been taught to pivot and move with the times, to never be afraid to make changes. You have the College ethos instilled in you, you have the heart for agriculture, you’ve been taught to be fearless, and to work towards a goal.

In pursuit of that goal, I promise you, three things will happen:

• You will make the most spectacular mistakes.

• You will fail in some part.

• Your best won’t be good enough.

Another promise: none of these things will matter. What will, is the how you react and deal with them, and move forward. Only you are responsible for your actions and your future. A leader does not need to be hard to be strong. Empathy and kindness go a long way.

To those of you with large rocks of self-doubt in your stomach, I see you, because I was you at my graduation. It’s okay. Over time you will find the exact place you need to be.

Three quotes for you to remember.

• A problem shared is a problem halved.

• Two heads are better than one, BUT too many cooks spoil the broth.

• And if you’re insanely impatient as I am, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

You’ve accomplished a great thing no one can ever take away. Remember this feeling and draw on it when you are going through tough times.

And then know one thing: You’ve got this."

“ To those of you with large rocks of self-doubt in your stomach, I see you, because I was you at my graduation. It’s okay. Over time you will find the exact place you need to be.”

The Sir James Darling Marcus Oldham Graduate of Excellence Award, generously supported by Mr Andrew Farran, is for graduates of Marcus Oldham College who left the College at least four years ago and have since excelled in their chosen field.

The Award is an opportunity for graduates to be recognised for their achievements and contributions within the agricultural, agribusiness and equine industries since leaving Marcus Oldham College.

Sir James Darling played an integral role in the development of Marcus Oldham College. As Headmaster of Geelong Grammar School, he emerged as one of the key drivers in 1958, convincing the trustees of the Oldham Estate with his long-standing belief that an agricultural school was needed and Geelong should be its location.

Andrew Farran was a student of Sir James whilst attending Geelong Grammar School before studying law at Melbourne University. He has had a successful career in public law and policy, business, and wool production. Inspired by Sir James, his Foundation is a generous supporter of Marcus Oldham College, in particular his Yiddinga Scholarship and recently the student residential expansion program.

2024 MOCOSA Graduate of Excellence

Nominations are invited for the Sir James Darling Marcus Oldham Graduate of Excellence Award for 2024.

You can nominate anyone who is a past graduate of Marcus Oldham, or yourself. Past recipients include Judy Croagh CertHM’82 and Tim Croagh DipFM'93 in 2012, James Riordan DipFM'93 in 2017 and current Chairman of Marcus Oldham Rob McGavin AdCertAA’93 in 2000.

Award requirements include:

• Applications must be no more than 1500 words in length.

• Students who graduated from the College more than four years ago (1963-2020) are eligible to apply.

• All information provided must be presented clearly and accurately.

• Nominees may be contacted by the rural media

• Award recipients are invited to make a speech at the College Graduation Ceremony in December.

• The winning entrant may be required to submit a short article for MOCOSA.

• Identification of the person nominating and contact details to be included.

• Unsuccessful applicants may apply in any following year.

The main areas that will be considered by the MOCOSA executive are:

1. Leadership

Have they/you been prepared to get out in front?

How have they/you demonstrated leadership capacity in their/your community, industry or business?

2. Innovation

Have they/you developed new and innovative ways of doing things? How have these assisted their/your industry or community?

3. Community/Industry Presence

How are they/you involved in the community or industry?

Are they/you involved above and beyond the norm?

4. Success

Is the business they/you have, or work in, successful? What impact did they/you have?

Any other supporting information will also be considered.

Closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 11th October 2024.

Applications to be submitted to:

Georgie Thomson BB(Agri)’12

Secretary MOCOSA Executive

georgie@ingleby.com.au

0409 940 295

Marcus All Over

Anne-Maree Conroy

A winner of Victoria’s most prestigious award for a female in Harness Racing, Anne-Maree Conroy CertIVHM’87 was determined to “ride not drive” horses when she studied equine management at Marcus.

The Pearl Kelly Award, for the outstanding achievement or contribution to Harness Racing by a woman, was presented to Anne-Maree by Harness Racing Victoria in 2022.

While she may have been a reluctant harness driver when at Marcus in 1987, Anne-Maree has embraced the sport she grew up with, and made her mark as a trainer, driver, and harness racing industry leader.

Anne-Maree said growing up in a family involved with trotting, she was determined to study equine management at Marcus, and first applied when she was 18.

“I was told I was too young and inexperienced. I wanted to ride horses not drive them, but I worked at my father’s trotting stable to pay for the course and get some experience, and reapplied when I was 20.

“I got my car license so I could drive to Marcus for the interview. I was proud of the fact that I saved the money and paid for it myself.”

While at Marcus, Anne-Maree worked for her father Bob Conroy’s trotting stable in Daylesford every weekend, working towards her trainer/driver license. However, she still harboured her preference for riding.

“After Marcus I accepted a job with Lindsay Turner CertIVHM’86 in New Zealand and worked in yearling prep at National Bloodstock, where I had done work experience after our NZ tour. While there, I had a bit of an epiphany, and decided to follow my dad into harness racing, even though I had avoided that until then.

“I started driving in races when I was nearly 23, and in my first year was the leading female junior in Victoria.”

Anne-Maree modestly credits her father’s horses for her early success, however a lifetime of successes since then are a credit to her.

“I have represented Victoria and Australia in harness racing, I’ve won a number of country cups, including the Geelong Pacing Cup and Trotting Cup, and I’ve trained Margaret Ruth to four-year-old trotting mare of the year in Victoria.”

She is the President of the Victorian Square Trotters Association, and in 2023 was presented with the Bob Conroy Award for Excellence in Trotting, an award named after her father. Anne-Maree, however, did not entirely abandon her dream to ride horses.

“I have also trained endurance horses and have finished 4th in lightweight, in both the Victorian championships and the Tom

“ I started driving in races when I was nearly 23, and in my first year was the leading female junior in Victoria.”

Quilty Gold Cup Australia, and I’ve had success in Monte racing, where trotting horses are ridden.”

She credits Marcus with opening her eyes to “other ways of doing things”, and the numerous contacts she made.

“I enjoyed the tours, and I particularly enjoyed the lectures from leading vets and experts. I think going to Marcus gave me a lot of confidence and knowledge.”

annemareeconroy@gmail.com

Marcus All Over

Marcus lessons apply in sports tech venture

Warwick

Fisher

Warwick Fisher DipFM'73 gave up rowing when he left school in Sydney in 1969. A few years later, while at Marcus Oldham, he thought about rowing again on the Barwon, but that just didn’t work out as planned and it was another 40 years before climbing back into the boat.

After graduating, Warwick moved to the family farm in the Gunnedah NSW district, a cropping enterprise owned by his parents and his maternal grandfather.

“In 2009, after running the farm for nearly 40 years, I decided I’d had enough of cropping and wanted to return to livestock production. We purchased a grazing property near Ebor on the New England tablelands, NSW and set about renovating that property and establishing a new beef breeding operation.”

With the assistance of their manager Jamie Wright DipFM'93, they established an Angus breeding operation of MSA and EU accredited breeding cows over the next eight years.

In 2011, Warwick’s wife Megan suggested that they move from New England to the coast to experience a different lifestyle. That appealed to Warwick, who had grown up in Sydney.

“There was logic in this argument; it made sense. We moved to Port Macquarie in 2013 while still running the farm under Jamie’s management. Eventually, having achieved our goals and objectives, we decided to sell the property in 2017.

“The sale freed up investment capital. We upgraded our house in Port Macquarie and purchased an apartment

in Sydney. By then I’d already embraced my old sport of rowing and had joined other clubs in Brisbane and Sydney. “It was like riding a bike, you never forget.”

Warwick’s goals and aspirations in rowing matched those he had aspired to in agriculture. He raced at the 2017 World Masters Games in Auckland and in 2019 won gold at the FISA World Masters Championships in the Men’s Masters Eight in Budapest.

It hasn’t just been the pursuit of medals that has captured Warwick’s imagination over the last 10 years. “I’ve now had the opportunity to invest in a sports technology start-up company, Regatta Solutions, that I believe will transform the sport and the spectator experience at regattas all over the world.”

Regatta Solutions provides real-time video and animation of racing on any smart device. In a sport which generally provides little opportunity to see what’s happening in the race from a distance, Warwick says “this is unique; a game-changer”.

Multiple cameras located along a course “talk” to each other and overlay live animation with live video and audio – this is a cloud-based technology which will be available on any personal smart devices. Live or remote spectators can watch the progress of the race from start to finish. Boat performance metrics include stroke rate, margin, pace, distance, and position in the race.

Regatta Solutions has strong support from Victorian and National rowing authorities.

Warwick returned to the Barwon River in March, where the Regatta Solutions technology was deployed for the first time at the Victorian Schoolgirls Regatta. The technology has also recently been deployed at the Head of the Yarra in 2023 and the Australian National Masters Championships in 2022.

“It’s an iterative process. We test, deploy, debug and test again, and deploy again. We’re getting more and more excited as we get closer to the completed commercial product which will vastly enhance the spectator experience and will improve race administration and enablement.”

warwick@oarinspired.com.au

Warwick wanted to share his story of the tech start-up he is involved in, but also the realisation, that in building successful businesses over the decades, he has often called on the lessons learnt at Marcus.

Gordon McNeil

Gordon McNeil joins leadership program

Congratulations to Gordon McNeil, BB(Agri)’18, a 2024 participant in the Australian Rural Leadership Program. He was awarded a Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) scholarship for the renowned leadership program.

Gordon has worked for Agracom for 12 years, a grain trading company based on the Liverpool Plains of NSW. In fact, he started with the company and continued his studies during his third year at Marcus.

“I started in domestic road logistics and then moved into export logistics and trading.”

Gordon connects grain growers with new and existing export markets. His work enhances farm gate returns, which funnels investment back into his local communities.

“Marcus provided me with a solid foundation in key areas of Agribusiness that I’ve been able to seamlessly transfer into my work.

“The emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving and business analysis has equipped me with the skills to navigate complex situations within my role and personal life.”

Gordon applied for the ARLP to further develop his “soft skill set” in a different environment. gmcneil2@outlook.com

Marcus All Over

Holbrook Paddock Eggs

Prue and Sam Pincott

Final year Agribusiness students touring the Riverina, NSW, were shown how Prue and Sam Pincott BBAM’03 have combined resilience, creative thinking and business savvy to grow their business, Holbrook Paddock Eggs.

It started when they moved from Yea in 2009, after the devastating Black Saturday bushfires. The Pincotts bought a farm northeast of Holbrook, where 50 chickens and

a caravan were integrated as part of their pasture management plan for their cattle enterprise.

The aim was to use the chooks as portable fertilisers to improve the soil health and reduce the use of synthetics and chemicals.

Their side hustle turned into a business, and they purchased Bellvue, a farm closer to Holbrook better suited for free-range egg production.

Laneways were developed, a water hydrant system installed, 16,000 trees were planted, and bush regenerative areas were fenced off as nurturing and encouraging biodiversity is a big part of the business model.

“We are passionate about the landscape and how we produce our eggs,” said Prue

And now, more than a decade later, the Pincotts and their four daughters run 15,000 free-range hens, ship 4000 dozen eggs weekly to Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and regionally, and in December 2023 they opened a unique retail outlet in Holbrook.

Holbrook Paddock Eggs is a homewares and gift store and interpretive centre, with a new packing and distribution facility out the back. Visitors will be able to shop, learn about the Pincott’s free-range egg production business

Marcus AG2 student tour 2024

" We have found that more and more often people want to know where their food comes from and how it is produced."

and view the eggs being graded and packaged when that is happening.

“We have found that more and more often people want to know where their food comes from and how it is produced,” Prue said.

And back on Bellvue, the Pincotts still run cattle and focus on regenerating their landscape, Sam said.

“We focus on a whole-farm system with agisted dairy cattle, that effectively serve to mow the grass in preparation for the chooks.

“We’ve regenerated a landscape that was in poor condition and continually adapted to climatic challenges.”

holbrookpaddockeggs.com.au sam@holbrookpaddockeggs.com.au

James Ridge

James Ridge BB(Agri)’19 never imagined his “hooning around on a motorbike” would steer him towards a career in carbon farming.

As Section Head of Portfolio Partners at Climate Friendly, he assists land managers in accessing carbon income streams.

This journey started on his parents' property in northwestern NSW, where they partnered with Climate Friendly on a carbon farming project. Spotting James riding his motorbike, a project manager offered him a job ground truthing satellite imagery across NSW and QLD.

After graduating with an agribusiness degree, James spent three years in the red meat industry before returning to Climate Friendly in 2021, due to the company's growth. His role is now signing up new carbon farming projects under the Human Induced Regeneration (HIR) farming methods.

“Climate Friendly has over 160 carbon projects under different methods including HIR, avoided deforestation, environmental plantings, forestry plantations and savanna burning.”

Participating farmers implement management changes tied to the carbon project, compensated through Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs).

“This might be lessening your stocking rate, or in extreme circumstances going from sheep to cattle, or removing all feral goats."

James highlights the misconception that carbon farming requires locking up land.

“You are still able to run stock, as long the level of stock does not suppress regenerating vegetation that are generating the ACCUs.

“Some partners said that although they are running less stock, they are making more money from livestock than before the carbon project.”

James values the support of the Marcus network, which has provided invaluable insights and guidance from diverse agricultural pursuits.

“I always have someone to call in each industry if I have questions.”

james.h.ridge@gmail.com

Marcus All Over

Luke Wilkinson

The Magic Millions Yearling Sale in January lived up to its name for horse breeder Luke Wilkinson DipHBM’02, when a stunning colt he bred was sold for $1.6 million in the prestigious Gold Coast event.

A bloodstock identity who has worked for several stables and studs over the last decade, Luke was involved in the purchase of the colt’s sire Extreme Choice as a yearling when working alongside one of Australia’s leading horse trainers Mick Price.

When the dual-Group 1 winner was retired to stud, Luke negotiated a lifetime breeding right in the colt and has been handsomely rewarded, although none that came close to jaw-dropping sum at Magic Millions.

“It is a dream for a breeder.

“It was unbelievable. It will change my life. The horse (Extreme Choice) that did it once before is going to do it again.”

The mare was bought by Luke for a small sum as a maiden in 2016. Yearlings out of the mare by Extreme Choice had sold for $70,000 and $250,000 in recent years but those results paled in significance and quality to the mare’s 2022 foal.

“From the moment this colt was born, three people from Vinery Stud were straight on the phone saying this colt is outstanding.”

luke@kiaoraestates.com.au

Sam Hayes

Hereford scholarship for Sam Hayes

Final year Agribusiness student, Sam Hayes, has been awarded the 2023 CM Hocking Study Scholarship by Herefords Australia (HA).

The late Mrs CM (Madge) Hocking, a Hereford breeder near Ocean Grove, left a significant legacy to HA, to support students taking a course that will benefit the Australian Hereford industry.

Sam developed his love for Hereford cattle growing up on the family’s Deepwell Station south of Alice Springs, after seeing how well they fared in the unpredictable seasons of central Australia.

When he finished secondary school in Adelaide, Sam returned to the NT, working as a station hand for CPC on Newcastle Waters Station in the West Barkly region.

Sam’s passion for the northern beef industry was reignited, and he decided to pursue higher education.

“I fell in love with the NT again at Newcastle Waters and decided to come to Marcus and make a career out of it.”

Sam hopes to use what he learns through his studies at Marcus to return to the NT and ultimately end up running his own property.

In the meantime, Sam remains connected to the Hereford breed through the Marcus network, gaining work experience at “Yarram Park”, Willaura.

Graham Brown

Graham Brown DipFM’65 is retiring to a house in Orange, after 77 years of agriculture. He reflected on those years in primary production, the role Marcus played in his farming practices, and offered advice to Marcus graduates,

“I found the weekly farm tours around Victoria particularly informative, and a great foundation for farm management in the following years when I returned to the family farm.”

After his father’s death in 1977, Graham said he was able to apply some of what he learnt of business management from Marcus, even though “gross margins left me cold”.

“We continued to grow the pasture improvement model utilising, and pioneering, aerial spray sow techniques for hill country farming, and took objective clip preparation to the next level of sale by description, which unfortunately industry was slow to adopt.”

Graham started breeding prime lambs when crossbreds were $15/head and lambs sold for $25 “which gave us cash flow through the back of the ‘82 drought and 1985 Canobolas bushfire”.

The losses through those fires were significant, and a battle with mental health issues ensued. He became involved with educating pre-agricultural college trainees, and while seeing the two-way benefits, there was a revolving door of employees.

When Newcrest Mining offered to buy the property in 1996, Graham sold and downsized to a lifestyle block, invested in a balanced portfolio and grew his leadership and advocacy through his volunteer roles with the NSW Farmers Association.

He was an Executive Councillor, and through his experience in 1985, became NSW Farmers’ representative on the NSW Bush Fire Coordinating Committee, lobbying for Risk management in Local fire management across the state. Graham’s message to Marcus students: “Get active in your state farming bodies – you have the skills and agriculture needs your input. Don’t leave it to somebody else. Numbers count when you lobby for representation at all levels.”

Photo credit: NSW Farmers grabro127@gmail.com

Rip Atkinson

Doors opening for Ripley

Red meat and livestock industry analyst Ripley Atkinson BB(Agri)’20 hasn’t wasted time since he graduated from Marcus.

He spent his first three years with Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), first working as an analyst, then managing the National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS), managing the reporters covering over 50 livestock markets each week.

Ripley was a media regular, including national news bulletins and ABC’s Landline, as well as presenting to livestock producers and in the boardrooms of Australia’s major corporate meat and livestock businesses.

This year, Ripley has moved to livestock market hedging tools provider, StoneX, as Australian Livestock & Commodities Manager, to develop and execute the company’s Feeder Cattle Swap.

“This is an over-the-counter financial product available to the beef industry to manage price and market risk."

Based in Sydney, Ripley is also leading an organisation, established to bring together professionals in agriculture, who will be the leaders of tomorrow.

“I became the Chair for Face of Rural Tomorrow (FORT) in November 2022, following a chance phone call with the founder Max Nell, a mate of mine.”

FORT aims to provide a community for younger people across agricultural sectors, to come together and connect.

“We can proudly say we’re on the path to creating this network with over 800 Facebook members and a few thousand followers across social media.

“Agriculture has a plethora of doors waiting to be pushed open by young people and it’s important to keep your mind and eyes open to those opportunities.

“They’re definitely there, sometimes you just have to look a little harder for them and you’ll be rewarded in spades “

And his advice for young Marcus graduates?

“Marcus has the best network base of any agricultural tertiary education provider in the country, something only a select group can say they have - don’t let that go to waste.

“Appreciating and utilising this network can get you places or open doors you didn’t know existed.”

rip.atkinson@gmail.com

FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR

James Bufton

Making a difference

There’s a great deal of excitement at Marcus Oldham and a lot of heavy machinery on site, as we begin construction of the new 45-bed student accommodation wing.

Last year, in just three months, the College Foundation raised 75 percent of the $10 million project budget, enabling the College Council, at its December meeting, to give the green light to start construction in the 2024 New Year.

Our work is by no means done.

We need to raise another $2.5 million this year, to deliver the new accommodation by the 2025 intake.

Our commitment to build without securing all the funds was bold but, with ongoing strong demand for student places at Marcus, this initiative is imperative. Demand for onsite accommodation already outweighs supply.

I extend my deepest gratitude to all those generous donors who raised $7.5 million to kick-start this building project, to give more young people the privilege of a Marcus education and ensure all those students can access the full “Marcus Experience”.

The impact is profound. Even beyond the classroom, living on campus at Marcus fosters continuous learning. Students engage in a rich exchange of ideas, forging strong connections that pave the way for their future careers and lifelong networks.

The Alumni Factor

I heard of the value of the immersive Marcus experience repeatedly during the Marcus Connect Tour functions, from both Alumni and past and current parents.

Throughout these tours, our Alumni have shared incredible stories of how Marcus has changed and enriched their lives. Many responded to the notion of paying it forward and donated generously to the student accommodation campaign, and I am grateful for your unwavering support.

Parents of Marcus graduates have expressed their gratitude through donations, for the life-changing experience and education Marcus has given their children.

We’ve also been the beneficiary of donations from the corporate and philanthropic sectors, a number of whom have been long-time backers of Marcus Oldham.

While acknowledging the generosity of all our donors, I’d like to make particular mention of a few, without whom we would not have met the target in time to start building the 45-bed student residence this year.

There were five extraordinary donations of $1 million, which I would like to acknowledge in this column.

Alumni Andrew Facey DipFM’66, and Kate and Rob McGavin AdCertAA’93, led the charge for this important project. They both exemplify the gratitude many Alumni have for our College.

“All students who attended Marcus did so due to the generosity of others.”

As Rob often says: “all students who attended Marcus did so due to the generosity of others”.

Recognising the College’s contribution to equine and agriculture, Andrew Farran has been supporting students through scholarships for the past 15 years, and as the sponsor of the annual MOCOSA Graduate of Excellence.

His gift of $1 million through the Andrew CC Farran Foundation continues his significant legacy to the future of Australian agriculture.

We were all very excited late last year to welcome significant donations to the student accommodation campaign from two new supporters, both from Western Australia.

Malcolm and Tonya McCusker embraced the campaign to increase student numbers at Marcus.

They were made aware of the campaign by Alumni Peter Hewlett DipFM’93, who attended the Marcus Connect Tour in Perth last year. He left wanting to make a difference, and approached the McCuskers, whose farming enterprise Martindale he has managed for 17 years.

Peter’s enthusiasm, and belief in the transformative power of Marcus to change young lives was so infectious, and their respect for Peter so deep, that the McCusker Charitable Foundation made a $1 million donation, and became active advocates for the College in WA.

Read the story of Malcolm and Tonya McCusker on page 18.

Photo courtesy of The Australian Womens Weekly

Even with the incredibly generous commitments that had been secured in just three months, a sizeable funding gap remained on the day Council met to sign off on starting construction. This gap could have risked delaying the build, considerably slowing and threatening its completion in time for students by early 2025.

A $1 million donation from Nicola Forrest AO on the morning of the Council meeting could not have been more timely, or more evident of the transformational power a helping hand can play in people’s lives –right when it is needed.

Nicola’s donation was an extraordinary gift, joining other contributions that have led to our new student wing construction now fully underway on our campus.

Many of us know Nicola as the co-founder of Minderoo Foundation and Director of Tattarang, under which companies like RM Williams, Bega Group, Akubra, Harvest Road Group and Leeuwin Coast are privy to her entrepreneurial vision for business as a power for good.

People may not know that she is a country girl - born and bred. Being at the helm of some of Australia’s most influential and innovative agricultural businesses may seem like an obvious ‘donor match’, but it means more to her than that.

Her donation reflects her belief in the power of access to quality education and services in Australia; from the very earliest ages of 0-5 years, those crucial developmental years that set students like ours up for success; through to the continuation of quality access to teachers, services and curriculum that a strong community can provide.

Like all our donors, Nicola believes these are examples of intergenerational investment in our young people, helping our families and communities to thrive.

That Marcus has been a leader in female student representation in a traditionally male-dominated industry, was also a factor for Nicola.

Nicola’s steadfast advocacy for equal economic participation is a beacon for the empowerment of women in all sectors.

She says: “We all benefit from unlocking the full potential of women and girls in these industries”.

In recognition from everyone at Marcus Oldham - including our students past, present and especially those set to flourish in the future - thank you to all our donors for your generous contributions and the example you have set.

James Bufton DipFM’94

Marcus Oldham Foundation Chair jamesbufton@bigpond.com

I mpact of giving

As a registered charity, Marcus Oldham has relied on the generosity of others to fund all its past developments since we opened in 1962.

Unlike other tertiary institutions, Marcus Oldham does not receive any formal funding from government. All income from fees supports the College’s operations, teaching and learning programs.

Therefore, Marcus Oldham depends on its community to support the College’s aims to help bring its long-term goals to fruition.

The facilities which house and educate our students and the majority of scholarship opportunities offered, are the result of the generosity of our supporters.

The Marcus Oldham College of today is the result of a longstanding philanthropic commitment by many people.

We look forward to recognising contributions since 1962, when we publish the College’s first Donor Impact Report in December.

The End of the Financial Year provides a timely reminder that as a registered charity, all donations made to the College are fully tax deductible.

To make a donation or pledge to the Marcus Oldham Foundation, you can visit the website: https://marcusoldham.vic.edu.au/giving or scan the QR code >>>>>

AT A GLANCE...

FOUNDATION ESTABLISHED: 1989

45-BED STUDENT ACCOMODATION PROJECT: $10 MILLION PRICE TAG SECURED FUNDS: $7.5 MILLION

TARGET FUNDS: $2.5 MILLION

Marcus Oldham College is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and listed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).

45-bed Student Accommodation Wing

Thanks to the following who made donations or pledges to the accommodation capital campaign. Those donors without a figure next to their name, have chosen to keep their donation amount confidential.

• Ainsworth, Angela

• Andrew CC Farran Foundation ($1,000,000)

• Anonymous Donors ($20,000)

• Archer, Grant & Kim ($10,000)

• Baillieu, Antony & Sybil

• Baillieu, Charlie & Samantha

• Baillieu, I. Marshall

• Baillieu, Sam

• Bufton, James & Susan ($50,000)

• Cameron, Andrew & Deb ($100,000)

• Day, Peter, May & Shannon

• Dickinson, Gordon & Alexandra ($100,000)

• Egerton-Warburton, Robert & Jennifer

• Eyres, Bruce ($5,000)

• Facey, Andrew ($1,000,000)

• Fairfax, Tim ($50,000)

• Fisher, Warwick

• Forrest, Nicola ($1,000,000)

• Gibson, Sandy & Anne ($10,000)

• Handbury Foundation ($10,000)

• Heggaton, Knox

• Laurie, Sean & Rachael ($3,000)

• Lowes Petroleum ($100,000)

• Mactaggart, Andrew & Claire ($50,000)

• McConnell, Graham ($20,000)

• McCusker Charitable Foundation ($1,000,000)

• McGavin, Rob & Kate ($1,000,000)

• MOCOSA, ($20,000)

• Molanco Pty Ltd

• Myers, Allan AC & Maria AC ($50,000)

• Nutrien Australia

• Parker, Jennie

• Penstock Pastoral Group ($25,000)

• Private Philanthropic Foundation ($250,000)

• Richardson, Carol ($6,000)

• Riordan, Paul & Fiona

• Rose Grange Foundation

• Sleigh, Andrew & Julie ($5,000)

• Squire-Wilson, Tim & Leal ($2,000)

• Stephens, Peter ($2,000)

• The HV McKay Charitable Trust ($40,000)

• The Profield Foundation ($200,000)

• The Scobie & Claire Mackinnon Trust ($150,000)

• Vickery Bros ($25,000)

• Wills, Alastair & Sally

• Wilson, Mark & Belinda

2024 Scholarship Recipients

Back row: LEFT PAGE - Jack Webster, FM3, (Cuballing WA), RC&EC Webb Trust (Agriculture), Sam Marshall, FM3, (Mulwala NSW), Dalara Foundation, Archie Howard, FM3, (Wagga Wagga NSW), Excel Farms, Regan Jones, FM3, (Simpson VIC), Dairy Australia, Hugh Valpied, FM3, (Ballarat VIC), Warrawidgee (Agriculture), Sam Crouch-Loveday, FM3, (Laang VIC), Dairy Australia

RIGHT PAGE - Fergus Lawrence, FM1, (Osmaston TAS), Dairy Australia, Tom Younghusband, FM1, (Baradine NSW), Customised Farm Management, Cooper Pearson, AG1, (Australind WA), Smithfield Cattle Company, Angus Burvill, FM1, (Balhannah SA), Hazeldean Litchfield, Lillian Ives, AG2, (Hay NSW), Channel Foundation, Alex Nieuwoudt, FM1, (Bendigo VIC), Lawson Grains, Ben Reardon, FM1, (Ettrick NSW), Excel Farms, Lachlan Barrett, FM3, (Conargo NSW), Mutooroo Pastoral Company

Middle row: LEFT PAGE - Dougal Sweeney, FM1, (Melville Forest VIC), Ingleby Farms, Ed Cox, AG2, (Coolah NSW), Warrawidgee (Agribusiness), Matthew Dykes, FM3, (Applecross WA), Meurer Pastoral, Anastasia Holland, EM, (Darwin NT), Thoroughbred Industry Careers, Mimi Mollett, EM, (Ravensthorpe WA), International Sport Horse Breeding, James Dawson, FM3, (Glengarry VIC), The Calvert-Jones Foundation, Dimity Crowe, AG2, (Mullion NSW), Yiddinga (Farran) Farm Management, April Webster, FM1, (Cuballing WA), Yiddinga (Farran) Farm Management, Chelsea Walton, AG1, (Barcaldine QLD), Currawong, Pip Ireson, AG2, (Booligal NSW), TeMania Angus, Emily Nixon, FM1, (New Norcia WA), Australian Farm Management

RIGHT PAGE - Charlotte Cuming, AG1, (Croxton East VIC), Dr Alistair McKenzie, Jess Mosley, AG1, (Cobar NSW), Kerin Agriculture, Daisy Berryman, AG2, (Gin Gin NSW), Kooba Agriculture (Final Year), Gabriella Gardner, FM1, (Paterson NSW), Nick Peterson Memorial, Lucy Packer, FM1 (Surat QLD), Dalara Foundation, Cody Dobbin, AG2, (Mitchell QLD), RC&EC Webb Trust (Agribusiness), Josephine Crothers, AG1, (Fairholme NSW), Kooba Agriculture, Kate Denholm, AG2, (New Norfolk TAS), Channel Foundation, Molly Lines, EM, (Maindample VIC), Emerging Equestrian Performance, Lucy Bramley, EM, (Finley NSW), Australian Equestrian, Isabella Dalton-Morgan, EM, (Devon UK), Australian Thoroughbred

row: LEFT PAGE - Oscar Klose, FM3, (Lucindale SA), Lawson Grains, Tanner Morris, FM3, (Kangaroo Island SA), Kerin Agriculture, Bella Leonhardt, AG2, (Katherine NT), The Estate of Susan Margaret Haggard, Nina Keene, AG2, (Injune QLD), Channel Foundation, Katie Faithful, FM3, (Calulu VIC), Greenham Agriculture, Georgia Lightowler, AG1, (Nyora VIC), Warrawidgee (Agribusiness), Jessica Wright, FM1, (Glen Innes NSW), RC & EC Webb Trust (Agriculture), Kiera McDonald, AG1, (Halls Gap VIC), TeMania Angus

RIGHT PAGE - Annabelle Campbell, AG1, (Narromine NSW), RC & EC Webb Trust (Agribusiness), Indi Allen, AG2, (Port Fairy VIC), Freemasons Foundation, Isla Salmon, AG2, (Gretna TAS), Victorian Limestone Producers Association, Meg Kennett, FM3, (Harden NSW), Ingleby Farm Management, James Downie, FM1, (Howrah TAS), Mutooroo Pastoral Company, Sarah Pearce, FM1, (Lameroo SA), Warrawidgee (Agriculture), William Liston, FM1, (CARDIGAN VIC), Mutooroo Pastoral Company, Will Allen, FM1, (Mortlake VIC), Bingham Agriculture

Absent: Gemma Stuart, AG1, (Dunedoo NSW), Warakirri Agricultural Trusts, Kody Hall, FM3, (Nth Bruny Island TAS), Marcus Oldham Indigenous Scholarship

Front

Staff news

Oli Vidor

“I loved the environment as a student. It’s awesome to come back and be able to contribute.”

Marcus Oldham has appointed a new Lecturer in Farm Business Management, and it’s fair to say that he already has a head start on most new staff members.

Oli Vidor BB(Ag)’17 has taken on the new position at Marcus and will be living on campus with his wife Hannah (nee Martindale) BB(Ag)’19 and their children Violet (2) and Eleanor Margaret, born on 5 April, 2024.

“This role at Marcus is a unique opportunity to work across the curriculum, showing the students how they will apply the theory they are learning into practical scenarios on farms.

“I am looking forward to engaging with the students, and the satisfaction that comes when they grasp a concept and see how it slots into place in the real world.”

Returning to Marcus to join the academic staff was always on the horizon for Oli, but he had planned a few more years as a farm manager before considering a change in career. And while it’s clear that Oli makes a plan and sets himself goals, he’s also shown his ability to adapt and respond when opportunities arise.

Oli grew up in Hobart with both parents working in the medical profession. It was during holidays at a family property in Young, NSW, that he determined his future lay in agriculture.

Dalby, then worked on farms in Tasmania and northern NSW for a few years.

Oli reached a point where he realised, he needed further education for any career progression.

Working with a Marcus student on placement in NSW, and then meeting Marcus lecturer Toby Campbell when he visited convinced him to apply, and he arrived in 2014 winning the Ingleby Scholarship.

“Coming to Marcus as a student, particularly for someone without a family farm, has been important for my career progression.

“The high level of learning across production and the critical thinking you are taught, gives you the tool kit to analyse, and ask why and drill down. Graduates are so well equipped to head out into industry.

“I lived on campus for the first year, which I’d encourage all students to do. You create lifelong social networks, get to know the lecturers really well and the smaller course sizes creates unique relationships with classmates and lecturers.”

In his third year, he also met his future wife Hannah Martindale, a first-year student at Marcus. Oli was Dux of his course, a feat also achieved by Hannah two years later.

In the years between life at Marcus, Oli has worked on large-scale mixed farming enterprises in western Victoria. He spent over five years as livestock manager at the Ingelby-owned Mt Elephant Station, a 5000ha property carrying 11,000 ewes. He took the difficult decision though to leave the job and property he and Hannah loved, to take on a farm manager role at a neighbouring property.

A decision by the off-farm owner to move to the property and take on management roles himself forced the couple to re-evaluate. And then Oli learned about the new role on the College academic staff.

“The nature of Marcus, the intimate class sizes, and the feedback I received when we were looking at this position – every staff member said to me; ‘we just love our job here’.

"The work here is so fulfilling, the facilities now are brilliant, and the diversity of staff and their expertise and the commitment to evolving is really important.

“I loved the environment as a student. It’s awesome to come back and be able to contribute.”

vidor@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

After school he completed a Diploma in Agriculture at

Appreciation for 15 Years

Deanne Whelan

Senior Lecturer in Accounting

Nat Jeffrey Centre for Professional Development Coordinator

Nat joined Marcus in January as the Coordinator for the new Centre for Professional Development (CPD).

With diverse experience from Gordon TAFE, local government, and private learning roles, she brings a strong background in education. Starting her career as a facilitator, Nat progressed into course coordination and qualification governance. Her expertise extends to education and business management,

Chris Walsh

Lecturer in Professional Skills

Chris originates from Minyip in western Victoria and brings more than 20 years of diverse experience in the agricultural sector, to his new role at Marcus Oldham. Throughout his career, Chris has worked in broadacre farming, sheep, beef, horticulture, and dairy production. He has held state and national roles in agricultural retail, as well as contributing his expertise to

Pat Amos

Lecturer in Agronomy

Patrick Amos moved from Tasmania to join Marcus as a Lecturer in Agronomy this year. He grew up in Hobart but was exposed to agriculture’s diversity through family farms. One was a sheep farm in Tasmania’s midlands while another was a cherry orchard, where he was picking cherries at 15 and managing the packing shed by 17, a role he says provided valuable lessons in people management. Diversity remained a theme post-school.

Patrick studied agricultural science at UTAS, winning a scholarship to study tropical agricultural systems in Sri Lanka. After

particularly in VET sectors like horticulture, agriculture, and conservation. Nat's journey feels like a full circle, from dairy work in high school to ag college before studying Forestry Management. Outside work, she juggles her teenage twin boys' sports and social lives, heading up the Hume to her husband's family farm near Kilmore or going to the coast. jeffrey@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

committees, including serving as Chair of the Young Agribusiness Professionals. Chris has travelled extensively across Australia and overseas for work, and he holds a degree from Deakin University. He continues to pursue his interest on decision-making and problem-solving skills in primary production.

walsh@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

graduating he managed the blackberry harvest for Costa Berries before seeking a more agronomy-focused position. Working as an agronomist in the production of pyrethrum for Botanical Resources Australia, enabled him to apply the knowledge from the university studies.

Patrick undertook the Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program last year, with the experience far exceeding his expectations. So much so, he took the opportunity to join the lecturing team and accept a new challenge. amos@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

Deanne Whelan has just celebrated 15 continuous years lecturing at Marcus. Continuous is important in this context, as Deanne has worked at the College before, with almost 20 years between.

“My first stint at Marcus was from 1992 to 1995. I had come from a high-pressure accountant role at a large Chartered Firm in Melbourne, where I’d typically have 12 to 14-hour days, and at times working 7 days per week.

“What a breath of fresh air Marcus was. In my first week Graham McConnell was dropping into my office at 6pm and telling me to go home.

“In the second week he called me into his office, and I thought ‘gosh what have I done wrong’. He just wanted to check in, see how I was going and if I had any concerns or needed any help. I wasn’t used to having a boss that really cares.”

The culture of caring is a thread that Deanne has experienced throughout her years at the College.

“You hear AB talk about the ‘Marcus Family’ - well it’s just so true.

“I have worked for most of the past principals on either a full-time or contract basis, and I must say that they all take the time to catch up one-on-one, and see how you are travelling, and ask about your family.

“Those ‘little things’ are really important.”

The people she has met and friendships she’s formed are among the many highlights for Deanne.

“Getting to know our young students, watching them learn and grow both academically and on a personal level and then seeing them succeed in their careers has been a highlight of my time at Marcus.

“It’s very rewarding to see the change in a student from the start of the year to the end of the year.”

whelan@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

Marcus Oldham College 2024

Back Row S am Black, Zach Jenkinson, Sam Marshall, Tom Acton, Hugh Helps, Hain van Eyk, Doclan Jackson, Archie Wilson, Ashton Lantzke, Dougal Coleman, Archie Howard, Toby Humphris, Alex Ritchie, Lachlan McGregor, Tom Younghusband, Hamish Macdougall, Ben Carter, Reagan Jones, Fergus Lawrence, Charlie Duff, Louis Orr, Walter Wilson, Tom Foss, Dan Luers, Tom Aveyard, Lachie Barrett, Will Wheaton

Row 6 H amish Wortley, Lachlan McLennan, Angas Burvill, Charlie Kelsall, James Chomley, Declan Phillips, Matthew Dykes, Angus Place, Hugh Plowman, Toby Allen, Harry Bufton, Sam Hector, Tom Cleland, Hugh Valpied, Harrison Alick, Angus Bade, Kaleb McIlveen, Benjamin Reardon, Samuel Crouch-Loveday, Thomas Eather, Will Kirkpatrick, Tom Walton, Hamish Klemm, Lewis Parsons, Will Seyffer, Ollie Harding, Harry Wetherall

Row 5 W illiam Hyles, William Liston, Tom Cruikshank, Tom Doonan, Dougal Sweeney, Michael Bradford, Max Bidstrup, steven Harris, Darcy Stringer, Samuel Bain, Mitchell Houldcroft, Charlotte Hood, William Cameron, Olivia Nugent-O`Leary, Jack Webster, George Hickson, Jack Liston, George Purser, Jock Adamson, William Allen, Jack Davidson, Brad Matthews, Mac Shaw, Ben Makeham, Harry Deshon, Fergus Tuck, Harry Vincent

Row 4 C ooper Pearson, Mimi Mollett, Annie Holland, Bethany Sudholz, Jessica Mosely, Zara Warren, Lillian Ives, Hugh Tuck, India Allen, Edward Cox, Daisy Berryman, Sam Smith, Benjamin Coe, Oscar Klose, Evey White, Angus Earle, Bede Archer, Pippa Browning, James Dawson, Phillipa McNamee, Gabriella Gardner, Emily Nixon, Annabelle Campbell, April Webster, Willow Noble, Bridget Stokes, Josephine Crothers, Darcy Pearse, Lachlan Campbell

Contents

Row 3 L aura Mayne, Lucy Bramley, Lily Barker, Kate Denholm, Charlotte Cuming, Suzie Koch, Sophie Leonard, Chelsea Walton, Annie Couchman, Kody Hall, Tayah Davey, Sophie McIntyre, Cian Stewart, Alicia Nixon, Jessica Wright, Gemma Stuart, Sam Hayes, James Downie, Olivia Muffet, Sarah Glanville, Olivia Moore, Eden Dearlove, Eliza-Jane Skinner, Caitlin Kinsela, Dimity Crowe, Cassidy Smith, Keira McDonald, Capri Keene

Row 2 D aisy Webster, Jessica Carter, Isabella Dalton-Morgan, Bianca Deery, Isabella Leonhardt, Islay Salmon, Caitlin Pauley, Abby Newton, Abby Hanrahan, Phillipa Ireson, Georgia Lightowler, Sarah Pearce, Ellie Fox, Eliza Riordan, Harriet King, Millie Hogan, Cody Dobbin, Lucy Packer, Deanne Whelan, Jessica Roberts, Sherryn Jennings, Meg Grogan, Nina Keene, Tanner Morris, Katie Faithfull

Front Row M atthew Robertson, Lisa Gowers, Chris Walsh, Lyn Cameron, Roberta MacLeod, Duncan Ashby, Patrick Amos, Cleo Gower, Elizabeth Gubbins, Kai de Lacy, Andrew Baker, Meg Kennett, Tony McMeel, Heather Davis, Kate Gorman, James Lang, David Cornish, Nat Jeffrey, Scott Vanderkley, Andrew Etherton, Oli Vidor, Michael Dacres-Mannings

Photography By Pam Hutchinson

We acknowledge we are educating on the traditional land of the Wadawurrung people and honour and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future.

Acknowledging the following organisations and individuals who contributed to our scholarship, bursary and curriculum programs this year

Marcus Oldham College Old Students Association MOCOSA

Magazine is published by: Marcus Oldham College, 145 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216

www.marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

Ph: 03 5243 3533

Magazine Editor: Deb Howcroft

Guest writers: Simone Dalton, Nathan Dyer, Jessica Grant, Danny Power and Naomi Purser

Supported by: Lisa Gowers and the Communications Team. Design: GDJ Advertising Printed by: Adams Print

Channel Foundation

Mrs Sandra Dent

Alan Blackburn

Nick Petersen Memorial

Warrawidgee Pastoral Company

Adam Giblin Memorial Bursary

Chris Shearer Memorial Bursary

Danny & Kate Thomas Yiddinga Holdings P/L

Currawong Grazing

Peter G. Smith Memorial Bursary

Susan Haggard Memorial Scholarship

Estate of the late Garth Massy-Greene