Student Stories
Ben - Certificate III in Agriculture Graduate
Jack - Certificate IV in Agriculture Student
Katy - Certificate III in Agriculture Graduate & Jeremy Upton Scholarship Recipient
Jacob - Certificate III in Agriculture Student
Kerry - Certificate IV in Agriculture
Meet Kerry Leigh, a 40-year-old Mum of three, Certificate IV in Agriculture Student and full-time dairy farmer at Aurora Dairies in Hamilton.
Kiarah - Certificate III in Agriculture Student
Meet Kiarah and her Border Collie Boots
Student Stories
At RIST, we’re passionate about creating pathways to successful careers in Agriculture for all our students.
We have an incredible community of students at RIST. All possessing different skills, interests and ambitions, and each representing the faces, passion and talent of the current and next generation of Agriculture.
Their stories reflect the heart of RIST – a commitment to growth, innovation and lifelong learning, Enjoy the read, You’re sure to be inspired!
Student in the Spotlight
Archer, Certificate II in Agriculture graduate
“RIST gave me that break in the week to do something I’m passionate about, and something I really want to do.”
When sixteen-year-old Archer Cameron walks the paddocks of his family’s sheep and cattle property at Nareen, Victoria, he sees more than mobs and pasture. He sees a future – one he is already shaping through study, hard work and a drive to lead.
Fresh from completing his Certificate II in Agriculture at RIST – Archer has wasted no time enrolling in the Certificate III program while tackling his VCE at Balmoral K-12 Community College.
Student in the Spotlight
Sophie, Certificate II in Agriculture graduate
At just 18 years old, Sophie is already on a bold path in agriculture — from growing up on a farm in Victoria’s Western Districts to now heading to a cattle station in the Northern Territory.
A recent graduate of the Certificate II in Agriculture at RIST, Sophie is proving that passion, curiosity, and hands-on experience are a powerful combination for a successful future in the ag industry.
Student in the Spotlight
Zane, Certificate II in Agriculture graduate
From Farm Life to Leadership Excellence – Zane’s Journey Through the Certificate II in Agriculture.
Meet Zane – Year 10 graduate, aspiring stock agent, and winner of the 2024 RIST Leadership Award. From crutching sheep to helping classmates, Zane’s passion for Ag and natural leadership set him apart.
Growing up on a sheep farm just outside Tarrington VIC, Zane has always felt most at home among the paddocks, livestock, and to the beat of a busy farm life.
Student in the Spotlight
Rachael, Diploma of Agriculture graduate
Rachael McGrath is a established leader in the Australian dairy industry while playing a vital role in the operation of her family’s dairy farm in Orford, South West Victoria.
Now at 29 years old, working alongside her father and uncle, both aged in their 70s, she has embraced managing their full Jersey herd and innovative farming practices, alongside leadership roles that have opened up for her within the industry.
Her deep connection to the land and her passion for the dairy industry are evident in every aspect of her work.
Student in the Spotlight
Chloe, Certificate II in Shearing Graduate
Chloe Dann fell into shearing after a job opportunity lead her to a RIST shearing school in 2017.
Read more from Chloe’s journey into shearing…
Student in the Spotlight
Jake, Certificate III in Agriculture Graduate
Read more about Jake’s passion for Agriculture …

More Student Stories
Ollie Baker
Certificate II in Agriculture student, DemoDAIRY Foundation Scholarship recipient
Katy McMahon
Certificate III in Agriculture Graduate & Jeremy Upton Foundation Scholarship recipient.
Jacquelien Pol
Dylan Light
Diploma of Agriculture Graduate and DemoDAIRY Foundation Scholarship recipient.
Image sourced DemoDairy.com