Sam Hayes’ Experience as the 2023 CM Hocking Scholarship Recipient

Sam Hayes was awarded the CM Hocking Scholarship by Herefords Australia in early 2023, a recognition of his dedication to his studies at Marcus Oldham and his commitment to the field of agribusiness and livestock production. Now in the final stages of his studies, Sam reflects on how the scholarship has significantly bolstered his educational journey and professional growth over the past year.

As Sam concludes his time at Marcus Oldham, he shares that the scholarship has enabled him to immerse himself more fully in his studies. The financial support allowed him to focus on his coursework in agribusiness and livestock production systems, which he notes has been invaluable to his personal and professional development. Sam cites marked growth in his understanding of these areas, which has prepared him well for his future career in agriculture.

A standout experience for Sam this year was the study tour to the United States. This opportunity exposed him to global livestock production systems, governance models, and technological advancements that he found both enlightening and inspiring. Sam believes these insights offer practical ideas for innovations that can be adapted and applied to Australian agribusiness.

Another highlight for Sam was his active participation in industry events, including the 2024 NTCA (Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association) conference and the Rockhampton Beef Week. These events allowed him to stay connected with industry leaders, engage in valuable networking opportunities, and gain further insights from seminars and speeches by experienced professionals. He described these gatherings as enriching, as they allowed him to connect with others in the field and gain firsthand knowledge from seasoned industry experts.

With his studies nearly complete, Sam is eager to embark on the next phase of his career. He looks forward to deepening his expertise in northern livestock production systems in 2025, where he hopes to apply his newfound knowledge and continue developing within the industry.

Sam extends his gratitude to the Herefords Australia for their support, emphasising how the CM Hocking scholarship has been instrumental in shaping his academic journey and helping him reach his goals.

The 2024 CM Hocking Scholarships applications are still open.

If you’re undertaking a course of study that will be applied to the breeding and management of Hereford cattle or will be of benefit to the Hereford breed, we encourage you to apply for the $5,000 scholarship today. Applications close 15 November 2024. For more information and how to apply head to: CM Hocking Scholarship – Herefords Australia