Ben Sullivan - Agronomist Casino Rural Store
‘Norco Rural has offered me a large number of opportunities within a diverse range of agricultural sectors. I have been able to work out in the field as an agronomist, as well as develop my in store merchandising skills.
I started working at Norco Rural in 1995 as a year 12 school leaver. Since joining the business, Norco Rural has trained me in all aspects of the diverse range of agricultural sectors they are involved in.
I have always had a particularly keen interest in crops and agronomy, which was soon recognised by Norco Rural. As part of the training program adopted by Norco Rural they put me through an Associate Diploma course with a major in Agronomy at the University of Queensland, Gatton campus, which I studied via correspondence. Whilst I was earning my Diploma I was also trained in other areas of the Rural Stores business. I have learnt everything from counter sales, field sales, to general merchandise handling and the logistics of various products. This has given me a far greater understanding of the local area and our customers' requirements.
The training provided to me by Norco Rural has provided me with the knowledge and experiences required to pursue my interests in field agronomy. I now hold the position of agronomist with the Casino Rural Store. I can confidently visit farms and know that I am able to provide technical knowledge on the whole range of products each farmer needs for their production systems.
It is great to be part of a team that keeps in touch with our ever changing rural industry. I enjoy my role as it allows me to help farmers improve their skills and help them expand their technical knowledge base so they have a strong and profitable future in the rural industry.'