Growing the Next Generation of Agriculture at Proston State School

Building Practical Skills Through Agriculture

Katrina has led Proston State School's agriculture program for the past 11 years, overseeing both agricultural education and the school's successful cattle show team. The program centres on beef cattle production, with the school operating its own Limousin and Red Angus studs under the Dangora Gully Livestock prefix. The herd currently includes eight breeding females and a Limousin sire, while cattle from other studs are also agisted for show preparation. Agriculture is a core subject for all Year 7 and 8 students, with around 30 students completing the school's Food and Fibre program, where they learn about the production of Australia's food and fibre. A further 10 students are currently enrolled in Agricultural Education as an elective in Years 9 and 10, focusing on practical livestock management and industry skills. The school also has 10 students participating in its cattle show team. While beef cattle are the primary focus, students also gain experience caring for ducks and chickens kept on the school property.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For Katrina, agricultural education extends well beyond the classroom. She believes it is essential that young people understand where their food and fibre come from while recognising the important role agriculture plays within regional communities. For many students in the area, agriculture offers rewarding local career opportunities, making practical experience invaluable when entering the workforce. Through the cattle show team, students develop confidence, leadership, responsibility and a strong work ethic, while gaining firsthand knowledge of the beef production supply chain.

Learning by Doing

Students gain practical experience across every stage of livestock production, from safely handling cattle through to preparing animals for specific market requirements. They learn the importance of balanced nutrition, monitoring daily weight gains and gradually introducing feed to maximise animal performance. Equally important is developing an understanding of the economics behind beef production, helping students appreciate the balance between animal performance and profitability. These practical experiences equip students with industry-ready skills while building confidence around livestock handling and animal management.

Developing The Next Generation

The benefits of the program are evident both in and outside the classroom. Katrina has witnessed countless students grow in confidence through their involvement with the cattle show team. In fact, around 90 per cent of Proston State School's student leaders over the past decade have been members of the team, highlighting the leadership and personal development opportunities the program provides. With agriculture remaining one of the region's largest employers, including opportunities with nearby Smithfield Feedlot, students leave school with valuable practical experience that can help open doors to future employment while encouraging the next generation of producers and agricultural professionals.

A Partnership Built on Performance

Riverina has been a long-standing part of the school's livestock program, with the partnership continuing throughout Katrina's 11 years leading the agriculture department. Reliable nutrition has played an important role in the school's continued success in both the show ring and carcass competitions.