The Monash University students spent three months working with Warrnambool industry staff to help solve research and development changes. 

The Monash Industry Team Initiative is an annual program funded significantly by the Gardiner Dairy Foundation.

Clive Noble, chief executive of the Gardiner Dairy Foundation, said 26 students were supported during the 2017/18 program.

“We identified an opportunity to get involved after having discussions with milk processors about the challenges of getting young people to come and work in the industry, particularly in regional areas,” he said. 

“The program has been a huge success, not only attracting students to employment opportunities within the dairy industry, but also giving dairy businesses an opportunity to work with dynamic multi-disciplinary teams, examining creative solutions to their business challenges.”

Levi Jackson, a fourth-year engineering and commerce student, said the program was “extremely rewarding and interesting”.

“One of the major advantages of the program is that we’re dealing with real challenges and we are given an opportunity to contribute to positive change and make an impact,” he said. 

“I’ll certainly be seeking employment opportunities in this industry in the future.”

For more information, visit www.miti.monash.edu.