Students are the new wave

By Bridget Cook
SIX local students have been chosen to jet set to the Netherlands next month to help enhance their studies.
Some Cranbourne Chisholm Horticulture, Conservation and Land Management students will be travelling overseas to undertake studies in controlled environment horticulture and water management.
Vanessa Calderera, Wayne Hobson, Ray Agrotis, Liam Frogley, Catherine Ashton and Kylie-Anne Rowe were the successful recipients of a VET Mobility scholarship funded by the Department of Education Employment and Workplace Relations.
Kylie-Anne said the trip would be life-changing.
“With Holland being the world leaders in hydroponics, it’s a huge opportunity for us to learn from the masters at the cutting-edge,” she said.
“Also, it’ll be the first time I’ve gone overseas.”
Like her five colleagues, Kylie-Anne had to go through a demanding approval process that included an interview.
After a review of her academic achievements she was asked about her aims for the trip, the projects she hoped to do there and the knowledge she would like to bring back to Australia.
Kylie-Anne said she hoped to learn more about how the horticulture industry in Holland recycles its water.
“There is a computerised water recycling system for hydroponics that I want to learn more about,” she said.
“It helps reduce the need for fertiliser and I think would have great potential for use in Australia.”
The group are busy organising fundraising events including an auction and industry networking night.
For further details about the fundraisers or to make a donation contact Catherine Ashton on 0419 883 443.