Innovative farmer recognised

A BENDIGO-based woman has been awarded the inaugural FMC LEAD program scholarship.

FMC Australia is an agriculture sciences company, advancing farming through innovative and sustainable crop protection techniques.

The Learn Evolve Apply Develop program scholarship is valued at more than $12,000 and provides a platform for aspiring female agricultural leaders aged 18-35 years old to thrive and innovate in agriculture.

An agribusiness graduate for ANZ Bank, Malkah Lara Muckenschnabl said she is excited to be a part of the LEAD program and will use the opportunity to continue her work to develop an “innovative recruitment strategy” for the agriculture industry.

“I look forward to having the opportunity to meet like-minded industry peers and leaders who share my ideas of creating a sustainable ag industry by bringing the young generations into the ag workforce,” she said.

“I believe the networking opportunities, study and professional development offered through the FMC LEAD Program will help me make further progress in turning this industry challenge into a commercial solution that will help others.”

FMC Australia and New Zealand managing director Kristina Hermanson congratulated Ms Lara Muckenschnabl, who shares the award with group financial controller at Pursehouse Rural in Tamworth Kareena Pritchard.

“Australian agriculture can only benefit from supporting women like Kareena and Malkah, who can offer more diversity of thought,” Ms Hermanson said.

“Seeing more young female graduates entering the sector is promising, but the key is bringing that diversity through the ranks to senior management to continue building diversity in decisions and strategic direction.”

Both women will share their ideas when they join FMC at the National Farmers Federation national conference in September.