Growing a career with almonds
THE rapid growth and positive future potential of the almond industry inspired Rajesh Nomula to take up a position with the Almond Board of Australia ( ABA ). Just two months into his new role as Industry Development Officer ( IDO ), Rajesh has already got his boots on the ground in orchards in some of Australia ’ s leading growing regions including the Riverland , Sunraysia and the Riverina . A recent graduate from the University of Queensland , Rajesh comes well-qualified , with a Master ’ s Degree in Agriculture Science under his belt , along with specialist research work in areas such as remote crop mapping and innovations in plant testing . The recent steady growth of the almond industry was a major drawcard when he considered taking on the new position . “ Australia ’ s almond industry may be relatively young , but when we look at what ’ s happening nationally with the availability of suitable land and the increasing rate of production , it ’ s experiencing a strong growth period ,” Rajesh said .
“ I believe there ’ s huge potential for continued growth in the industry in coming years and I ’ m excited to be able to contribute to that .” As an IDO , Rajesh is working with the ABA ’ s development team to design and deliver extension and education programs to the industry . He ’ s also meeting almond researchers and getting a good understanding of the current research being undertaken in each of the almond growing regions addressing the industry ’ s priorities .
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14 In A Nutshell - Autumn 2022 Vol 23 Issue 1