Agricultural students win Farmlands scholarships

Two agricultural students have each won a $2500 scholarship from rural cooperative, Farmlands.

Lydia Cave from Whanganui and Andy Lee from Waipukurau have won this year’s Tom Cranswick Memorial Scholarships, awarded to candidates to further their interest and knowledge of New Zealand’s primary industry and its global positioning. 

Lydia, who grew up on a 200 hectare sheep and beef farm near Whanganui is in her Honours year of studying agricultural Science at Massey University, having already completed a BSc at Victoria University. She intends to complete a PhD in Agricultural science and then work in agricultural research.

Andy, who grew up on a 90 hectare sheep and beef property near Waipukurau, is in his second year at the Smedley Station cadet training farm. He is going to Lincoln University next year to study for a Bachelor of Commerce in agriculture. His long-term goal is farm management. 

Farmlands spokesperson, Allister Bathgate, says the scholarships are awarded to high achievers who have demonstrated a strong work ethic, an ability to further their knowledge and experience, and to achieve careers that are aligned to and will allow them to contribute to the New Zealand primary sector. 

“The scholarship is named after Farmlands founding director and 20-year chairman, Tom Cranswick. His passion and dedication was a major influence in the establishment of the co-operative in 1962. 

“It’s gratifying to see so much potential, energy and a passion for the agricultural sector in the next generation. It was difficult to pick only two recipients from the very high quality applicants. 

The Tom Cranswick Award began in 2003 and Farmlands has given $40,000 in grants to students since then.  We’re very pleased to be able to support our future agricultural leaders.”