CSU students showed off their skills in the National Merino Challenge as they were named Champion Team in the competition in Melbourne!
The National Merino Challenge is a two-day initiative of Australian Wool Innovation which allows young people to get hands on within the merino industry.
The CSU team of four consisted of ag science, animal science and vet science students who took out the winning title in the Challenge’s Tertiary Division.
It’s not the first time CSU have taken home gold though – this year being the third time a CSU team has secured an overall win in the competition’s five year history!
In addition, Bachelor of Agricultural Science student Elliot Lade took out second place in the Challenge.
Team trainer and lecturer in the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences Susan Robertson said, “The win by the team again demonstrates the success of Charles Sturt University in equipping its students and graduates with the skills and knowledge needed by employers and industry”.
CSU took 12 students to the Challenge in Melbourne in late May. The students were tested on identifying merino wool traits using the AWEX ID system, valuing merino wool, visual assessment of breeding animals, using breeding indices in animal selection, and animal nutrition.
“This national competition is a great opportunity for students to get hands-on and practical experience in a range of real-life activities,” Susan said.
In addition to lecturer Susan Robertson, the CSU team was trained by Graham Centre Director Professor Michael Friend, and Rob Harris from Riverina TAFE NSW.
The CSU team wouldn’t have made it without their generous sponsors from Moses and Sons Wool brokers, Gordon Litchfield Wool, and the NSW Stud Merino Breeders Association.
Source: CSU News
