Students discover virtual reality farms and robots at Mildura campus

 Mildura secondary school students will have the opportunity to learn about agriculture technology and how to produce sustainable food on Earth and in space, at a free event this Thursday. 

The immersive AgTech event for students in Years 7 to 10 will be held at the SuniTAFE smart farm on 12 September. 

Students will meet researchers and tour the smart farm, drive drones and experience virtual reality farms, learn about vertical farms and robots and select the best plants for a Mars habitat. 

 La Trobe University Mildura Head of Campus, Sandra Connor said the event would allow for more young people to understand the importance of using AgTech in an industry where technology was rapidly advancing. 

“Agtech seeks to increase productivity, profitability and sustainability and as a university, we want to continue to maintain and promote sustainable food, fibre and medicine production on Earth and Mars,” Sandra said. 

“Over the next 30 years, agribusiness and the agriculture system will pave the way for sustainable living on Earth and this event will offer a glimpse into this experience and give students an opportunity to see a different way of life.” 

Students will have the opportunity to visit a protected cropping area and become researchers for the day, exploring the science needed to maintain life on Earth and beyond.  

“Encouraging innovation and enterprise in agriculture is important for young people and this event will give them the chance to try new things and discover new skills and ideas,” Sandra said. 

This event was made possible through an AgriFutures Agritech $50,000 grant that Associate Professor Tony Gendall received to deliver Agritech events in the regions.  

 It was hosted by La Trobe University, Plants for Space and SuniTAFE. 

The Explore AgTech event will be held from 9.30am to 2.30pm on Thursday,12 September.  

To register and for more information visit mildura@sunitafe.edu.au 

Highlights of the event:  

Tour the SuniTAFE smart farm 

Drive drones and experience farms in virtual reality 

Discovering vertical farms and robots  

Select plants for a Mars habitat