DEFYING THE DRIFT

Over the Term 3 school holidays from the 23rd-25th of September I participated in the Defying the Drift program at Longerenong College in Horsham. 

Defying the Drift is a program designed to help young people develop life skills, resilience, and leadership abilities. It often targets at-risk youth or those facing challenges such as social or economic difficulties. The program typically includes mentoring, workshops, and activities that encourage personal growth, teamwork, and positive decision-making. The Defying the Drift program also has a sector which typically focuses on empowering young people in rural or farming communities. It may involve training and education  on sustainable farming practices, agricultural entrepreneurship, and food security.  Over the three days we spent time doing a lot of different activities as a group, went on industry visits and got to hear from different guest speakers.

On the first day we spent a bit of time getting to know everyone in the group and went on a tour around Longerenong College. On the second day we went out to different places the local area such as:

• JT Johnson's Hay in Horsham is a local business specialising in the production and supply of high-quality hay and fodder for livestock. They cater to farmers and agribusinesses, offering various hay types and related services to support agricultural needs in the region. 
• Nuseed is a seed company based in Horsham, Australia, specialising in the breeding and production of high-quality seeds for crops like canola. They focus on developing innovative varieties that enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
• Aminya Farms is located an hour out of Horsham,  it is a farming operation focused on sustainable agricultural practices. They specialise in producing a variety of crops, including sheep and livestock, and are committed to quality and environmental stewardship. The farm plays a significant role in the local agricultural community.

I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone, especially the Swan Hill Sunrise Rotary Club, for sponsoring me and making this incredible opportunity possible. I am truly grateful for the experience, which has expanded my knowledge and deepened my appreciation for the agricultural industry. The insights I gained and the connections I made will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on my future. Thank you all for your support and encouragement. I highly recommend students to apply for this program in 2025 because you will make lifelong connections.

Indi O'Brien

Year 10 student