What is your background?
For the past three years, I have been studying a degree in agricultural engineering at the “Institut Agro” in Montpellier, France. Since September, I have had gap year to do internships around the world. Last year, I was able to do a six month internship in Guadeloupe at a French public research institute, and I spent two months in New Zealand to do WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms,) which is a global volunteer program to work on organic farms in exchange for food, accommodation, and hands on learning about sustainable agriculture.
What is your role at BCG and what will you be doing?
I am completing a three-month internship at BCG, where I’ll be working across a range of teams. At the moment, I’m assisting in the lab, preparing seed for sowing.
What about the role interested you in applying?
I’m currently on a gap year and was really motivated to gain international experience through internships, particularly in Australia, which has always been a dream destination of mine. In France, Australia is often seen as a place with unique landscapes, wildlife like koalas and kangaroos, and a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.
After finishing high school, I completed the national exams in France, which determine university pathways. I initially considered studying veterinary science, but I chose to pursue agriculture instead, as I’m more interested in ag research and working directly with livestock.
Looking ahead, my goal is to become a farm advisor in France.
What are your interests outside work?
I enjoy doing craft activities, cooking, and playing sports like surfing, running, dancing and swimming.
What are you looking forward to whilst working at BCG?
I’m looking forward to experiencing different aspects of the role and gaining a better understanding of how farming systems in Australia compare to those in France.
In my region near Montpellier, the average annual rainfall is around 700mm. We grow similar broadacre crops, but there is also a strong focus on horticulture, including vegetables and fruits like tomatoes and cucumbers.
Farming in France is often more intensive and typically conducted on a smaller scale, with a greater reliance on irrigation compared to the large-scale, dryland systems seen around Birchip.
Life in Birchip vs France?
It’s hard to compare, they’re very different. Montpellier is a large city, but if I compare Birchip to the small village where I grew up, the biggest difference is the sense of community. It feels much stronger here than it does in France.
I do miss my cats and the variety of food in Montpellier. And I have to say, the cheese in Birchip doesn’t quite compare to the cheese in France.
