More than 550 people attended to see the presentation of awards to graduates from a range of courses in agriculture, horse husbandry, dairying and conservation and land management.

Matt completed a Certificate IV in Agriculture (and was equal dux) at the college during 2008.

Most Tocal graduates work in the livestock or cropping industries or in other rural businesses such as Stock and Station Agencies.

Presenting the awards was Professor Nicholas Saunders, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Newcastle. Professor Saunders gave the occasional address and encouraged students to pursue their passion as agriculture is one of the most exciting careers available to them.

According to College Deputy Principal, Mr Bill Kinsey, demand for graduates has

never been greater.

“This high demand for graduates and strong industry involvement in our courses has resulted in good enrolments,” he said.

“We also place students on large pastoral properties in north Queensland, the Northern Territory and New Zealand.”

Mr Kinsey said there was a great diversity of people receiving qualifications in agriculture and related areas.

“Tocal, which is operated by the NSW DPI, continues to provide highly relevant and specialised training,” he said.