Congratulations to Ashley Evans, the 2019 Rural Youth Young Farmer of the Year.
The Hodgman majority Liberal Government recognises that young people will be the driving force in growing Tasmania’s agricultural sector, which supports thousands of jobs across the state.
Agriculture is a key pillar of the State’s economy, contributing $1.6 billion a year, so it is important the next generation of leaders have the knowledge and skills to further strengthen Tasmania as an agricultural powerhouse.
Innovative young farmers such as the finalists who competed at Quercus Park yesterday will be crucial in achieving our goal to increase the farm gate value of agriculture to $10 billion by 2050.
We are backing the farmers of tomorrow by providing $70,000 over four years to Rural Youth Tasmania to further develop young people in rural industries leadership programs.
I commend the high quality of all finalists, they can be very proud of their achievement and I am excited for the future of Tasmanian agriculture with these quality farmers coming through.
The Young Farmer of the Year competition tests agricultural knowledge through a variety of challenges or modules. Before yesterday’s final, all entrants had previously competed in heats with the top 12 competitors going through to the State Final.
The Hodgman majority Liberal Government is a passionate supporter of our farmers and rural communities, which is why we are investing $100 million in this year’s Budget to continue a range of initiatives to help drive investment and create local jobs.