Three of regional Victoria’s ambitious and innovative food and fibre stars have been awarded scholarships from the Andrews Labor Government’s Food Source Victoria $2 million program to increase their skills and help accelerate business growth.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford today congratulated recipients Veronique Froelich, Anthony Leddin and Rowena Norris.
Ms Froelich, based at Agropraisals in Cobram, will use the scholarship to attend the Produce Marketing Association Australia - New Zealand Executive Program to gain a better understating of how corporate fresh food buyers work and how to become a supplier of choice.
The program will allow Ms Froelich to develop collaborative strategies for innovation and business growth.
Mr Leddin, based at Valley Seeds Yarck, will attend the International Seed Federation Congress, the largest collaboration of seed companies globally in a bid to increase Valley Seeds’ export opportunities and help promote Victoria’s strengths as a reliable, quality provider of forage seed.
Ms Norris from Australian Table Grape Association Mildura, will study an Advanced Diploma of International Business Management to better understand the processes involved in exporting to Asia, New Zealand and the United States.
She will share her knowledge with growers to build their export capacity so they may take advantage of rising demand for Victorian table grapes.
Food Source Victoria’s scholarship program is helping regional Victorians working in agriculture and food production enhance their business and export skills through accredited training and professional development.
It aims to provide individuals with assistance to develop skills that will equip them for meeting the growing global demand for Victoria’s premium food and fibre products.
Through Food Source Victoria, a further $18 million in grants is available to support agriculture and food businesses to work together to overcome some of the challenges associated with exporting their product.
Applications for scholarship program and business grants are still available – visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Food Source Victoria’s scholarships program giving regional Victorians the skills they need to develop in-demand products and grow the state’s economy.”
“We know the importance of our food and fibre industry and that’s why want to see our export market potential grow.”
“The scholarships target innovative agriculture professionals who live in regional Victoria, allowing them to expand into new markets or launch a new product. This all helps to boost exports and create jobs.”
Reviewed 26 June 2020