The next generation of sheep and wool industry leaders are being encouraged to apply for the Cecil Brown Scholarship, which has been re-launched through a partnership with the scholarship’s committee and Monaro Farming Systems (MFS)

The scholarship is named in honour of Cecil Brown, a well-respected sheep man who spent his working life on Hazeldean, Cooma, as stud sheep overseer.

Cecil was born at the turn of the 20th century and lived to the age of 94. While he did not have the extensive formal education available today, he was an excellent stockman with a natural talent for sheep breeding.

He embraced the use of measurement in selecting superior sheep and was universally admired and respected for his willingness to help younger sheep breeders appreciate the finer points of Merino breeding and to pass on his knowledge generously.

Cecil balanced natural stockmanship with a willingness to embrace innovation, embodying the adaptability that continues to drive the sheep and wool industry forward today.

The scholarship has been re-established through a collaboration between MFS and the Cecil Brown Scholarship Committee, after a number of years in recess.

The two groups share a commitment to supporting education and career development for young people in the region’s sheep and wool industry.

“Monaro Farming Systems is proud to partner with the Cecil Brown Scholarship Committee to continue Cecil’s legacy of encouraging young people in agriculture,” MFS executive officer, Bec Kading, said.

“The scholarship opens doors for local youth to see what’s happening in other parts of the industry and bring that knowledge and enthusiasm back to strengthen farming on the Monaro.”

The Cecil Brown Scholarship provides an opportunity for young people interested in the sheep and wool industry to further their knowledge and experience through a three-week travelling scholarship, visiting progressive and innovative sheep and wool producers, processors, and marketers in New Zealand and elsewhere.

There are no academic requirements to apply for the scholarship, only a keen and enquiring mind and a willingness to learn and embrace new perspectives. It is particularly suited to those with ability and interest, but not necessarily the opportunity or financial means, to gain experience and benefit from the knowledge and practices of the sheep and wool industry in other regions.

A key aim of the scholarship is for the recipient to take the next step on their career path and contribute back to the sheep and wool industry and Monaro community.

Applications opened on Friday, 17 October and close on Friday, 31 October.

The recipient will be announced at the MFS Summer Field Day on Wednesday, 3 December

Apply via the MFS website: www.monarofarmingsystems.com.au