Working in Agriculture is something I’ll do for the rest of my life – Katy McMahon
For Katy McMahon, the path to a career in agriculture was a deliberate choice. After not pursuing university immediately after high school, Katy’s life was filled with getting married, buying a house, and starting a family. Yet, her passion for agriculture simmered beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to emerge. That moment came with her decision to enrol in a Certificate III in Agriculture with Rural Industries Skill Training (RIST), and she has never looked back.
At 28, Katy’s life is filled with the balancing of wearing many hats. Mum, wife, and now student; she’s a beacon of determination with a passion for agriculture and life learning fueling her success.
Katy McMahon pictured receiving her Certificate III in Agriculture at Graduation in August 2024, by RIST Chairman Tony Fleetwood.
Recently, Katy was announced as the second ever Jeremy Upton Scholarship recipient, a recognition that speaks volumes about her dedication to study and her passion for the Agricultural industry.
Juggling roles as a busy mum, wife, and student is no small feat. Katy’s days are packed, yet she manages to find harmony between her family commitments and her studies RIST.
“It’s always worth it,” she says, Her coursework at RIST, which fits neatly into her family schedule with classes every fortnight, has offered her a comprehensive view of the agricultural sector. The exposure to various enterprises and interactions with esteemed guest speakers have enriched her learning experience immensely.
Recently, Katy graduated from the Certificate III in Agriculture and she will continue on in her learning journey in 2025 in the Diploma of Agriculture.
The Jeremy Upton Scholarship, established in 2023, was founded in the legacy of the late Jeremy Upton and his commitment to supporting young people in accessing agricultural training. As RIST’s former chairperson, Mr Upton was passionate about fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders. The scholarship aims to honor his legacy by providing essential financial assistance to students like Katy, ensuring that they can pursue their educational and career aspirations.
For Katy, receiving this scholarship has been a hugely rewarding experience. “The Jeremy Upton Scholarship is a huge honor,” she says. “Without it, I wouldn’t be able to study the Diploma. I’m really excited that the RIST Board saw something in me.”
As she looks to the future, Katy is eager to continue her studies and deepen her knowledge in the agricultural industry. Her advice to other students embarking on a similar journey later in life is straightforward and encouraging:
“The best skill I’ve learnt with RIST is to ask questions. Everyone in this industry encourages you to ask questions and everyone is very generous with the knowledge and information that they are willing to share with you”.
Katy’s story highlights the incredible impact of scholarships like the Jeremy Upton Scholarship. As she continues to study and work within the industry, Katy remains a source of inspiration for anyone daring to embrace new opportunities, no matter what season of life they are in.
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Adult Learners Week.
September 2-9 marks Adult Learners Week, dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of lifelong learning. This week serves as a powerful reminder that education knows no age limit, background, or previous experience. Whether you are a seasoned professional or someone embarking on a new path later in life, there’s no expiry date on learning. Katy McMahon’s journey embodies this spirit, demonstrating the value of continuing education and the wonderful opportunities it can unlock.
Farming has always been a way of life for Katy after growing up on a farm at Cavendish and now living at Nareeb VIC. Images provided, Katy McMahon.