The 18 year-old is in his first year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Charles Sturt University in Wagga.
He has received a helping hand with his career goals from the Deniliquin NSW Farmers Association branch, with Nick awarded its inaugural $1000 scholarship.
The handy cash boost is expected to help Nick with his accommodation and other associated relocation costs.
Deniliquin branch chair Amanda Barlow said the scholarship includes a subsidised membership of the NSW Farmers Association for Nick, who she described as ‘‘a standout applicant’’.
‘‘We liked his vision and his optimism, and that he already has a background in agriculture,’’ Mrs Barlow said.
Nick, a former Deniliquin High School student, said his family has a history of farming in Deniliquin and he was inspired to follow in the footsteps of his parents, Anthony and Bronwyn.
He said while farming conditions are exceptionally tough right now, he has confidence it will bounce back. And he said he wants to be involved when it does.
‘‘My grandfather was also a farmer — the whole family has been involved since him,’’ Nick said.
‘‘We mainly have cropping and sheep, and I have a passion for agriculture.
‘‘I believe this town (Deniliquin) was built on agriculture — it’s one of the main support industries.
‘‘My end goal is to be in agribusiness, in Deniliquin somewhere. Until then I want to gain experiences in different industries.’’
Mrs Barlow said the scholarship is funded by the local branch and was open to all young students who lived in the Deniliquin area, not specifically to the family of association members.
‘‘Our aim is to support the study of agriculture by encouraging a local person to study it,’’ she said.
~ Zoe McMaugh
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