These young women are redefining who belongs in agriculture

Lalita Roopnarinesingh, a University of Queensland student, defies expectations by pursuing a dual degree in Agriculture and Agricultural Science. Coming from a family of doctors, lawyers, and accountants, she had no prior connection to agriculture. Her interest in the field was sparked during her high school years when she selected agricultural science as an elective.

Ms Roopnarinesingh credits the GrowHer program, run by CQUniversity, for exposing her to the technological side of agriculture and helping her envision a career in agricultural technology. The program, which brings together high school girls from across regional Queensland, focuses on real-world agricultural challenges and exposes participants to various career pathways in the sector.

GrowHer coordinator Jaime Manning emphasizes that there is no longer a need for a family background in agriculture to find a place in the industry. The program addresses the forecasted rise in technology-related jobs in agriculture over the next decade, highlighting the need for a diverse skill set. Students attending the GrowHer workshop in Longreach, including Cloncurry sisters Amelia and Chloe Robertson, expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of building careers in agriculture while staying in rural Queensland.