Meet the Team - Angus

Meet Angus! Our Graduate Agronomist.

What made you want to become an agronomist?

• I have always been passionate about Agriculture and have wanted to work in and around Australian farming systems from a very young age. I studied a Bachelor of Science and Advanced Studies at Sydney University, majoring in Plant Production and Resource Economics. Following university, I worked as a Grain Advisor for 3 years before moving out to Parkes to pursue my career in Agronomy.

• I’m passionate about the future of Australian agriculture and the new technology constantly being developed across the industry. I understand how important this technology is in helping farmers better manage their operations in the future, and I want to support them in adopting it effectively.

• I have always been a practical person and enjoy the challenge of problem-solving, whether it’s something complex in the office or even some simple issue with a piece of machinery. I once heard someone describing Agronomy as being a crop mechanic, and I think it’s a very accurate representation of the role we play – Identifying issues and providing ways of remedying such issues. 

What crops or farming systems are you most passionate about?

I‘m very impressed by the dual-purpose cropping systems being utilised across Australia. Although they may not always be the star performer from a gross margin perspective, the ability of these systems to be able to produce impressive crops, as well as the added feed benefit for feeding livestock, is a testament to the ingenuity of Australian farmers and the practices they use.

What do you enjoy most about agronomy?

• I really enjoy the people side of Agronomy as much as the technical side. Working with growers, understanding how their businesses operate, and helping them make practical decisions throughout the season is something I find very rewarding.

• One of the things I like most about Agronomy is that you’re always learning. No two seasons are the same, and there is always something new to pick up from growers, colleagues, research, and what is happening in the paddock.

• I’m particularly drawn to the balance Agronomy requires between science and practical decision-making. It’s not just about knowing the theory, but about applying that knowledge in a way that is realistic, timely, and useful for growers.

Coffee order?

Large Cap, no sugar, thanks!

Favourite season on the farm?

Autumn is always a favourite, cooler mornings and warm days, and there’s still enough light to have a beer after work with a sunset.

Biggest farming fail or funniest paddock moment?

Always finding dumb ways of getting bogged, like trying to cross a muddy ditch to save 5 minutes, or even getting stuck on the way to pull someone else out of a bog.  

If you weren’t an agronomist, what would you be doing?

When I was young, I wanted to be a fighter pilot; however, at about 10 years old, I found out I was colourblind and wasn’t eligible to be a pilot. So if I weren’t working in Agriculture and were able, I’d be flying jets somewhere. 

Favourite crop to look at when it’s thriving?

Canola in full flower has to be one of the most impressive crops to witness first-hand, especially if you’re lucky enough to be flying around in a plane.