“I do believe that it takes a lot of work to be a farmer, and anyone that is brave enough to take the career on and succeed, is aspirational in their own respect”
– Jake
Jake is pictured receiving a Leadership Award from RIST Chair, Tony Fleetwood at the mid-year graduation ceremony, August 2024.
Jake Tonissen has grown up on the land and is based at Byaduk, Vic. At 18, he is currently completing his final term of schooling in Hamilton. When he is not in the classroom, he is a dedicated member of his family’s maternal and terminal sheep enterprise, Chrome Sheep Studs.
In August this year, Jake graduated from RIST Certificate III in Agriculture, where he was awarded the graduating class Leadership Award for his natural ability to positively shape and drive classroom interactions with peers and trainers, resulting in a strengthened learning experience.
Through completing a Certificate III in Agriculture, Jake admits he has grown his interest into the practical aspects of farming.
“One of the most enjoyable things about studying at RIST is the hands-on activities, such as drenching and vaccinating sheep,” he reflects.
The supportive environment among fellow students and friendly trainers also enriched his learning experience, fostering friendships and collaboration.
When identifying what motivates him towards a career in Agriculture, Jakes likes the diversity in work and hands on application,
“I like the diversity in the work that is required to run farms and the hands on type of work that is included in it”
While Jake doesn’t have a detailed ten-year plan, he’s super clear about one thing: he’s sticking with Agriculture. After finishing his year 12 studies later this month, he’s planning to take a short break before diving back into farm life, especially gearing up for their annual ram sale in January.
Jake’s interest extends beyond agriculture; he also enjoys being outdoors and playing sports, such as football, basketball, and cricket, along with riding motorbikes.
Looking ahead, Jake is considering further studies, like a diploma at RIST, but he knows that getting practical field experience is key first. He dreams of managing a sheep stud in Western Australia, but ultimately, he hopes to return to his family farm and take over from his dad when the time is right.
For anyone considering enrolling in an Agriculture course with RIST, Jake encourages others to follow their passions, saying, “Just do it. It’s an amazing course, and it was definitely worth my time.”
Thankyou for sharing your story Jake, we wish you all the very best with upcoming exams and for a bright future ahead!
Jake is pictured during his coursework administering and drenching sheep as part of the Livestock Health Units.