RIST Launches Groundbreaking Igloo 360 Learning Experience to Revolutionise Agricultural Training
In a major leap forward for agricultural education, RIST has unveiled its latest immersive technology: the Igloo 360 Learning Experience. This state-of-the-art cylindrical projection dome is designed to transport students into real-world farming environments, without ever leaving the classroom.
With Australia facing increasingly variable climate conditions, including extended dry spells, students can now experience pasture growth, weed identification, and on-farm decision-making through high-definition 360° footage. The experience simulates paddock walks, interactive lessons, and even real-time field training from trainers based anywhere in the country, whether in Queensland, Western Australia, or the Northern Territory.
Bill Hamill, CEO of RIST, described the innovation as a critical tool in future-proofing agricultural education: “The Igloo 360 is designed to provide an experience for students that they couldn’t normally access in the real world. In dry seasons like we’re experiencing now, we can’t take students to see green pastures or seasonal weed stages, but with this technology, we can bring that experience to them, all year round. It’s an exciting step forward in our mission to grow the next generation of agricultural professionals.”
The Igloo 360 will be used across pasture management, agronomy, livestock systems, and emerging tech courses, further strengthening RIST’s position as a leader in hands-on, future-focused agricultural training.
This project was funded by the Victorian Government through the Regional and Specialist Training Fund (RSTF). The RSTF supports the development of high-quality training and assessment resources to deliver the best possible learning outcomes for students.
To learn more, or book a viewing session of the igloo, Join our August Information Sessions. More details at the button below.
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More about RIST.
Since its establishment in 1992, RIST Agricultural College has proudly stood as a leader in agricultural education, deeply rooted in regional Victoria. For over three decades, RIST has nurtured a strong purpose: to equip the current and next generation of agricultural professionals with the skills, mindset, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
At the heart of RIST’s philosophy is a commitment to purpose- led education, empowering students to grow not only their technical capabilities but their confidence and contribution to the future of agriculture. Whether they’re taking their first step into the industry or upskilling to take on leadership roles, our students are supported by expert trainers, real-world farm experiences, and cutting-edge tools that prepare them for success.
Innovation continues to shape the RIST learning experience. In June 2025, we proudly unveiled our immersive 360-degree learning Igloo, offering students the opportunity to step into virtual farm environments. With the addition of smart headsets, learners can refine practical skills in a safe, engaging space before applying them on-farm. These tools complement our long-standing focus on practical field-based education, where students gain insight, resilience and adaptability directly from the paddock.
“Our purpose is to create thriving graduates who are job-ready, passionate, and proud to contribute to agriculture,” says RIST CEO, Bill Hamill. “Everything we do is about supporting the future of our industry.”
