Young Farmer, Big Vision: How Archer Is Turning Passion into a Career – and Why Others Can Too.
“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.
His determination and emerging leadership were recognised this year with RIST’s prestigious Leadership Award, confirming what those around him already knew: Archer is one to watch in Australia’s next generation of farmers.
Building on Family Roots
Archer’s connection to agriculture runs deep. “I’ve lived on the farm my whole life,” he says, reflecting on childhood days shadowing his dad and grandfather during shearing and cattle work. That early exposure sparked a curiosity that formal schooling alone couldn’t satisfy. Enrolling at RIST gave him the perfect “break-up” in his week -hands-on, practical learning that transformed passion into clear skills.
From Irrigation to Pastures
The Certificate II program exposed Archer to the breadth of modern agriculture. One day he was assembling pipelines and learning to select the right pump; the next he was immersed in agronomy modules or perfecting crutching and grinding techniques alongside industry professionals.
“Learning from people who do this every day polished up what Dad had shown me,” he explains. The irrigation unit especially opened his eyes: “If a pipe bursts, that’s money down the drain. Knowing how to fix it saves time and cash—and that knowledge stays with you for life.”
For Archer, the highlight was bringing new ideas home to test on the family operation, then swapping notes with his father about “proper techniques” for shearing and sheep health. Each success reinforced the value of combining classroom theory with real-world practice.
A Surprise—and a Spark
When Archer’s name was called for the Leadership Award, he admits he was “pretty shocked.” Yet his teachers weren’t. Throughout the course he consistently threw himself into every practical session, asked questions and helped classmates master tasks. The award validated his commitment and—importantly—showed that leadership in agriculture starts long before you run a business; it starts with attitude.
Next Steps: Certificate III and Year 12
Rather than resting on his laurels, Archer has already begun the Certificate III in Agriculture, with plans to finish mid-next year.
Balancing senior secondary studies and on-farm responsibilities would intimidate many teenagers, but he frames it simply: “Agriculture’s a huge umbrella, there’s so much to learn, and RIST helps you figure out what you want and how to achieve it.”
His long-term goal is clear: return to the family farm armed with the technical know-how and leadership skills to keep it thriving. Along the way, he hopes to mentor younger students, just as older farmers and trainers have guided him.
A Message to Other Young People
Asked what he would say to anyone considering agriculture, Archer doesn’t hesitate: “Give it a crack—you’ve got nothing to lose.” He points out that today’s industry spans livestock, cropping, agronomy, ag-tech, water management, business and more. Whether you grew up in town or on the land, there’s a niche waiting for you.
Looking Forward
As Archer continues his studies, his story is already inspiring peers across south-west Victoria. It shows that age is no barrier to meaningful achievement and that practical education can light the spark that traditional classrooms sometimes miss.
With young leaders like Archer learning, innovating and returning to family enterprises, the future of Australian agriculture looks bright and there has never been a better time for other teenagers to join the journey. After all, as Archer’s experience proves, “you’ve got nothing to lose and a whole world of opportunity to gain.”
Home. Images supplied by Archer Cameron.
Study Agriculture in 2026
If you are considering a career in Agriculture, but don’t know where to start, join us in August for our 2026 Agriculture courses information sessions!
Prospective students, their family members and employers are warmly invited to attend.
Learn more and register for an information session today,
Info Session Dates:
Hamilton – Monday 18 August
Terang – Thursday 21 August
Online – Monday 25 August
Why RIST Makes the Difference
- Hands-on focus: Students move from workshop to paddock, learning by doing.
- Industry trainers: Courses are delivered by professionals who still work in the field, ensuring up-to-date techniques.
• Flexible pathways: Programs can be combined with VCE if you’re still at school, or part-time for adult learners, letting students tailor study to their lives. - Supportive community: Small class sizes foster teamwork and personal growth—exactly what helped Archer step into leadership.
