Saputo Dairy Australia is proud to support the next generation of dairy and agricultural leaders through its annual Supplier Scholarship Program.

This year, 11 students from across Victoria and South Australia have received scholarships of up to $5,000 to support their tertiary studies and career pathways within dairy and the broader agricultural sector. The program is open to Saputo farmer suppliers and their immediate family members and reflects our long‑term commitment to a strong, sustainable dairy industry and thriving regional communities.

Meet three of our 2026 scholarship recipients

Tandia Sharman – Shady Creek, Victoria
A Bachelor of Science student at Charles Sturt University, Tandia is passionate about supporting farmers to adopt more sustainable and regenerative practices while maintaining productivity and profitability.

“My long-term goal is to support and guide farmers, particularly those using conventional systems, towards more regenerative and environmentally responsible approaches while maintaining productivity and profitability. I am especially interested in applying these principles within the dairy industry, where sustainable soil management, pasture productivity, animal welfare, and emerging agricultural technologies play a critical role in long-term success.

“Agriculture is not just an industry in rural areas; it is a way of life. By helping integrate the best of conventional, organic, and regenerative systems, I hope to contribute to a more resilient, productive, and sustainable future for Australian farming,” Tandia said.

Maddison Evans – Rosewhite, Victoria
Currently studying a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University, Maddison is driven to provide accessible, evidence‑based veterinary care to dairy farmers, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

“A core motivation underpinning my career goals is the provision of accessible, practical, and evidence-based veterinary care to agricultural producers, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. I am strongly aware of the unique challenges faced by dairy farmers, including geographic isolation, workforce shortages, economic pressures, and increasing regulatory and welfare expectations.

“As a veterinarian, I aspire not only to provide high-quality clinical services at both the individual animal and herd level, but also to act as a trusted advisor who supports producers in making informed, sustainable decisions for their businesses.

“In addition to clinical practice, I am deeply committed to education and industry engagement, particularly supporting young and emerging farmers. In my experience, there is a growing reluctance among young people to enter the dairy industry, often due to misconceptions about career pathways, lifestyle sustainability, and long-term viability. I see education, mentorship, and open communication as critical tools in addressing this challenge,” said Maddison.

Eloise Murnane – Forrest, Victoria
A Bachelor of Agriculture student at the University of Melbourne, Eloise is developing strong skills in animal health, nutrition, genetics and on‑farm biosecurity, with plans to return to South West Victoria after her studies.

“Through my studies, I am building both scientific knowledge and practical skills in agricultural systems, with particular interests in animal health, nutrition, genetics, and biosecurity. A highlight of my degree has been learning at Dookie, including being able to experience the robotic dairy. This experience showed me how new technologies and precision agriculture can improve animal management, efficiency, and farm sustainability. It also strengthened my interest in combining modern technology, good genetic selection, and strong biosecurity with practical farming knowledge to support the future of the dairy industry.

“Agriculture is changing quickly due to environmental, technological, and economic pressures, and I want to be part of the solutions that keep the industry strong for future generations. I hope to use what I learn to help farmers improve herd performance, productivity, and sustainability while maintaining high standards of animal health and disease prevention.

“After completing my degree, I plan to return to South West Victoria and work within the dairy industry, supporting farmers with advice on animal health, nutrition, genetics, and on-farm biosecurity,” said Eloise

Through the Supplier Scholarship Program, Saputo is proud to support students like Tandia, Maddison and Eloise as they develop the skills and knowledge needed to support farmers, strengthen regional communities and contribute to a sustainable future for the dairy industry.