For Emma Thomson, growing up on a Northern Territory cattle farm meant she always understood the practical, hands-on side of agriculture.
Her desire to get the knowledge and skills to run an agricultural business with confidence led her to the Diploma of Agriculture and the Diploma of Agribusiness with UQ Skills.
“These programs have helped me learn the finer details of running a successful business in this industry,” Emma said.
“I have grown up on a property my whole life and I know how to make cows fat, but that is not enough if I want to have my own farm one day.
“I knew that I needed to develop the business skills, or I may not be able to run a successful operation.”
The agribusiness subjects quickly became the most valuable part of her studies.
“We learned how to do profit and loss statements, how to budget, how to plan a property and even how to do taxes.”
Emma appreciated the freedom to base her assessments on her own family’s farm.
“The assessments have been really flexible.
“We can adjust them to make them practical for our lives.
“I have been able to use my family’s business for assessments, and it has helped me see our farm in a whole new light.”
Her soil assessment aligned perfectly with work that was already happening at home.
“The soil assignment was based on test results taken from my family farm, which made the task relevant and interesting.
The course has also helped Emma explore a new direction that she is excited about.
“I am looking into share farming or leasing some country when I get home.
“Everything I have learned, I can take home and apply on the ground straight away.”
Explore agriculture and rural operations programs with UQ Skills.
