Briane: The City-Slicker Jillaroo

When 16 year old school student Briane McCarthy explains to people what career path she wants to follow when she completes her secondary studies, their reactions are one of surprise: "A lot of people think I am wasting my time."

But Briane remains determined to pursue a career in the beef industry. Briane is undertaking an Agricultural Studies at Mount Annan Christian College in Sydney's south-west as part of her Higher School Certificate. Briane's interest in the cattle industry was sparked at the end year nine when she participated in a cattle camp in Warwick Queensland. Her mother, Sharon, notes Brianne was hooked from then on.

At the end of the camp Briane received a TAFE certificate for a Cattle Showing module. Even though there is a perception that working with cattle is a male occupation, Briane notes that the majority of participants at the Warwick camp were female. Briane's parents, Paul and Sharon, have supported her every step of the way : "We've encouraged our children to follow their passions," says Sharon.

Briane's ultimate goal is to work for a large business such as the Queensland Agricultural Company, starting as a jillaroo and working her way up. And her message for other girls considering an agricultural career? "Have a go, persist, and be very open to other people's suggestions."