Nuffield Australia Unveils 2026 Scholars Driving Agricultural Innovation
In a year defined by extreme weather events across Australia’s agricultural landscape, Nuffield Australia has announced its 2026 scholarship recipients. Among the 19 new scholars, five will focus specifically on strategies to safeguard farming and rural communities against climate extremes.
The announcement was made during a gala presentation dinner at the Adelaide Oval, where the cohort was celebrated for their dedication to advancing the future of Australian agriculture.
Research and Global Exploration
Over the next 18 months, the scholars will embark on 15 weeks of international travel, engaging with world-leading experts, research institutions, and innovative farming operations. Their mission: to return with fresh insights, best practices, and solutions that can be applied to Australian farming systems.
Guy Hebblewhite, Nuffield Australia Executive Director and 2013 Scholar, emphasized the importance of this year’s program:
“Our 2026 scholars embody the innovation and resilience that define Australian agriculture. Their drive to learn from global leaders and apply insights locally will spark fresh thinking and strengthen agricultural communities nationwide.”
Theme for 2026: Be Curious, Drive Change
This year’s scholarships are guided by the theme “Be Curious, Drive Change.” The focus highlights Nuffield’s commitment to fostering leadership and empowering farmers to embrace new opportunities for sustainability and profitability.
Mr. Hebblewhite added:
“A scholarship is about building on generations of knowledge while boldly exploring new ideas to shape a more sustainable and profitable future.”
Proven Impact of Nuffield Scholarships
The 2025 Nuffield Australia Impact Report found that:
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Nearly 90% of scholars improved their farming systems and production as a direct result of their research.
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50% of alumni pursued further study, reinforcing the program’s role in cultivating lifelong learning and leadership.
For more than 75 years, Nuffield scholars have returned to Australia with global insights that not only strengthen their enterprises but also enhance the broader industry through shared knowledge.
Climate Resilience Focus
In 2026, five scholars supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund will address climate variability and explore practical solutions to build resilience in Australian agriculture.
2026 Nuffield Scholars by Region
New South Wales
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Simon Blyth (Delungra) – Exploring IoT, AI, automation, and robotics in farming.
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Laura Davies (Sydney) – Studying export diversification for primary industries.
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Jessica Fedorow (Lewis Ponds) – Assessing ROI of farm infrastructure investments.
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Kristen Hegarty (Cassilis) – Investigating livestock value-adding for climate resilience.
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Sally Turner (Trundle) – Reframing farm administration as a strategic tool.
Northern Territory
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Isobel Heffernan (Daly Waters) – Building community-driven climate resilience in grazing.
Queensland
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Jackson Boardman (Ravensbourne) – Integrating drones in horticultural tree crops.
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Jessica Bidgood (Central QLD) – Exploring integrated grazing approaches for profitability and ecology.
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Nathan Cleasby (Townsville) – Expanding Australia’s role in the freshwater crayfish market.
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Michelle Lyons (Charters Towers) – Advancing edutourism to strengthen trust in red meat production.
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Abby Templeton (Kybong) – Bridging research and commercialization in ginger tissue culture.
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Kate Watts (Toowoomba) – Using traceability tools to support smaller and remote producers.
South Australia
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Sam Clothier (Lucindale) – Researching free-range poultry health and productivity.
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Jock McNeil (Loxton) – Examining strip-till systems and soil constraint management.
Tasmania
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Penny Hooper (Longford) – Studying work-life balance in livestock and dairy farming.
Victoria
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Sally Bethune (Lake Boga) – Investigating value-adding in dairy farming for sustainability and generational retention.
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Yumeng Chen (Melbourne) – Exploring “digital twin” virtual farm models for decision-making and supply chains.
Western Australia
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Blythe Calnan (Uduc) – Researching stock handling as a resilience-building strategy.
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Callum Wesley (Southern Cross) – Studying opportunistic cropping and low rainfall break crops.
Australian Capital Territory
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Sally Buck (CSIRO) – Partnering with Nuffield to bridge science and agriculture through program participation.
About Nuffield Australia
For 75 years, Nuffield Australia has provided transformative learning opportunities for agricultural leaders. Through its flagship scholarship program, the organization equips scholars with the knowledge, insights, and networks to create a sustainable and profitable food and fibre industry.
For more details on the scholars and their research journeys, visit: www.nuffield.com.au/scholars
Media Contact:
Peter Somerville
Phone: 0403 868 984
Email: peter@curriecommunications.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Nuffield Australia Scholarship?
The Nuffield Scholarship is a prestigious program offering Australian farmers and agricultural professionals the opportunity to study overseas, gain global insights, and apply them to advance local farming systems.
2. How long does the scholarship last?
Scholars undertake 15 weeks of international travel over 18 months, engaging with industry leaders, researchers, and farming communities worldwide.
3. Who is eligible for a Nuffield Scholarship?
Applicants must be Australian citizens aged 28–45, engaged in farming or an agricultural industry, with a desire to lead, innovate, and share knowledge.
4. What is the theme for 2026?
The 2026 theme is “Be Curious, Drive Change”, encouraging scholars to explore bold ideas that contribute to sustainability and profitability.
5. How has the scholarship impacted past recipients?
According to the 2025 Impact Report, nearly 90% of scholars improved their farming systems, and half pursued further study, demonstrating the program’s lasting value.
6. How can I follow the research of 2026 scholars?
Full profiles and research updates are available on the Nuffield Australia website.
