Noel Jansz lives and breathes the East Gippsland region of Victoria.
Noel grew up on his family’s beef cattle property in Tabberabbera, and now manages the Elders branch at Bairnsdale, not too far from home.
Noel splits his time between managing the branch operations, and working as a horticultural agronomist, which is how he got his start at Elders 13 years ago.
Most days, you will still find Noel on farm, working with clients to improve their productivity. He explained that his days are varied, and can range from conducting specialist testing to developing tailored plans, and anything in between.
“Some days, I will be performing soil tests to determine soil health and nutrient levels, and others I could be using drones to analyse data on crop yields and plant health,” he said.
“We also develop and implement crop management plans, including planting schedules, irrigation strategies using moisture probes, and pest management techniques.
“Overall, the important part of my role is helping farmers improve their yields, reduce environmental impact and ensure sustainable practices.”
Noel explained that the Gippsland horticulture industry has been experiencing significant growth over the past few years, making it an even more exciting and rewarding industry to be involved with.
“The region has favourable environmental conditions, access to water resources, and a strong agricultural infrastructure that supports growth in the sector,” he said.
“There is an increasing trend in the use of technologies such as precision agriculture, automation, and genetic engineering in farming practices. As farmers begin to incorporate these advanced technologies, it is likely that the industry will become even more efficient and productive.
“With favourable conditions, a focus on sustainability, and technological advancements, the Gippsland horticulture industry is well-positioned for growth and has the potential to become a significant player in the market.”
Demand for labour is a pressing issue for agriculture in Australia, creating significant opportunities for qualified individuals to contribute to the industry, as growers look to get more from their land.
Young people looking to get their start in horticulture, or agronomy more generally, can apply for a spot in the Elders Graduate Agronomy Program, which has been running annually since 2015. The program has produced some of Elders’ finest working agronomists, across the horticulture, broadacre and viticulture spaces.
Noel advised that university students looking to get their start in agronomy should strongly consider applying for the program.
“Becoming an agronomist takes years of experience being in the paddocks, and developing knowledge first hand,” he said.
“This program is specifically designed to launch careers in agronomy, focusing on building a foundational understanding of crop segments and what it means to work as an agronomist with Elders.
“Graduates become confident in making critical decisions after their two years in the program, so it really fast tracks their learning.”
Participants in Elders’ Graduate Agronomy Program can learn their trade alongside some of the industry’s leading specialists, including Noel. Graduates go through two six-month rotations in the first year, followed by one 12-month rotation in the second year where they can specialise in a crop segment of their choice.
Noel has mentored many graduates over the years, and currently has program participants Hugh and Olivia working alongside him at Bairnsdale.