A CHILDHOOD spent in the Adelaide Hills helped to develop a love of agriculture for new Lois Harris Scholarship recipient Nicholas Riddell.
The former St Peters College is studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences at the University of Adelaide and was awarded the Agricultural Bureau of SA's scholarship in recognition of academic excellence.
Mr Riddell received the highest Tertiary Entrance Score for a student entering the Agricultural Science course in 2019 with a TER of 99.65.
The scholarship, named in honour of a former Agricultural Bureau of SA board member, the late Lois Harris, is in its 20th year and recognises high achieving students entering into their first year of tertiary education.
Agricultural Bureau of SA chair Mark Grossman said the Lois Harris Scholarship supported and encouraged young people looking to pursue a career in the agricultural industry.
"We are very pleased to present this year's scholarship to Nicholas, who plans to pursue career options in plant biology or agronomy after his studies," he said.
"Nicholas will use the scholarship to help cover his HECS loan, as well as fund work experience trips over the duration of his degree."
Mr Riddell did not grow up on a farm, but said he grew to love agriculture while living in the Adelaide Hills throughout his childhood.
"I have lived in the Hills around agricultural businesses and often visit the farms of nearby relatives and friends," he said.
"I also have worked on a local cherry and lemon orchard for the past five years.
"I have always enjoyed working on the land and interacting with other people, so I figured that the Degree in Agricultural Science at Adelaide University offered what I wanted.
"Many friends have also mentioned about how it's such a great degree and the employability it creates.
"I am very grateful for the prize and would like to thank the Agricultural Bureau of SA for making it possible."
