Putting theory into practice
As part of their commitment to providing young agricultural professionals with the opportunity to engage in world-class research and development, Angus Australia and Charles Sturt University (CSU) have awarded internships to two students, Jock Adamson and Teagan Colless.
Jock is currently undergoing a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management, and Teagan is completing a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and a Bachelor of Veterinary Science.
For a period of 14 months, starting in October 2022, the selected interns will gain insight into the data collection and research elements of the Angus Sire Benchmarking Program (ASBP). This includes Artificial Insemination (AI) of the Angus herd, collection of performance data, as well as any other aspects of performance recording.
For Teagan putting theory into practice across the program is key.
‘I’m looking forward to being involved in the Angus Australia program as it will give me an insight into the industry and the practical experience to accompany my education.
While Jock cannot wait pursue his keen interest in research, breeding and selection, as part of the program.
‘The Charles Sturt University and Angus Australia Internship Program will greatly assist me in achieving my career goals and allow me to grow my skills and experience. I look forward to learning more about the artificial insemination and benchmarking programs which serve the beef cattle industry.’
Over the past several years, Angus Australia and Charles Sturt University have collaborated to provide internship opportunities, with the selected interns assisting with the ASBP, including collecting research data from the CSU cattle herd, a co-operator herd in the ASBP program.
The ASBP uses the Charles Sturt University Angus herd to grow phenotype and genotype reference population with contemporary Australian Angus animals, particularly on hard‐to‐measure traits, for enhanced genetic evaluation, collaborative research and innovative development).
Angus Australia’s Strategic Projects Manager Christian Duff is looking forward to working with Jock and Teagan throughout the internship program.
“This internship program provides an excellent opportunity for students interested in the agricultural industry to gain a better understanding of a research project that actively contributes to the research and development of the Angus breed.”
“The program also aims to benefit Jock and Teagan by providing them with the opportunity to enhance their professional and personal development in their respective fields.”
Charles Sturt University Farm Manager James Stephens looks forward to working with Teagan and Jock over the next 12 months on the project on the CSU farm in Wagga Wagga.
‘Their enthusiasm and willingness to be part of the program was immediately obvious and makes them ideal interns and worthy recipients,’ he said.
‘They come from vastly different backgrounds from southern Victoria to Far North Queensland, which I think will give all of us some insight into vastly different production systems while working together.’
‘I am confident they will both enjoy their time, and will no doubt learn plenty of practical skills and get a better understanding of how the ASBP works and how this research is leading to better production of high quality beef.
About the participants:
Teagan Colless
Teagan Colless is a second-year Veterinary Science student at CSU. Teagan became involved in the beef cattle industry at a young age by spending time at her family’s Brangus Cattle Station in Far North Queensland. This motivated her to attend Hurlstone Agricultural High School as a border, where involved with the cattle showing team and toured agricultural enterprises in Iowa, United States. Following completion of her veterinary degree, Teagan hopes to complete a Theriogenology residency and work in cattle reproduction whilst managing her family’s Brangus stud.
Jock Adamson
Jock Adamson grew up on a property in Western Victoria and looks forward to a career in the agricultural industry with a great deal of optimism and passion, as he sees many opportunities both on farm and beyond the farm gate; locally, nationally, and globally. For Jock the Angus Scholarship provides a wonderful opportunity for hands on learning and he is very excited to commence the program.
