A Trip That Will Never Be Forgotten

Now that we have arrived back to the United States and many of us have gone our separate ways, whether it may be starting a new job, or internship we all have been able to reflect on our trip to Australia. As I began my first day of Quality Assurance Intern at Indiana Packers Corporation today, I realize how blessed I am to be back in Indiana where I come from. They were very welcoming today and I am sure I will learn an endless amount this summer.

As far as the Australia trip I was able to participate in, I learned very many things that I will be able to use throughout school and as I grow up. Until I got to Australia I did not realize how different of a culture they have. Most people don't think of it much of being a different culture, but until you actually experience it is a whole different story. As for the agricultural operations we got to tour, my classmates and I learned how differences in production and processing can effect the final outcome. For me it was very interesting to go through the abattoirs and see how their production compares to America. Today as I was walking through the production plant on my internship, I am able to relate the differences and similarities between our practices and the Aussies. I think an eye-opener for me and my classmates was the sheep plant. Many of us have not had the opportunity to see this in America, because sheep is not a high priority here in the states. Now as for Australia it is one of their main "crops." The plants were very efficient in how many sheep they were producing per day and their harvesting process worked. As we went through the plants many of us noticed a difference in their product verse ours. The Australia beef, and sheep are very lean compared to what we have in America. There was not much marbling to their product verse what we like here in America.

I also enjoyed visiting the cattle operations. I always like to compare operations and in Australia they are somewhat different then here in the states. I think the operation that had their head going in the right direction was Spry's Shorthorn operation. They have a bull that won the Sydney Royal and brought a decent amount of money. Their goals are in the right direction, and we might even see some of their product in America in the future. Another operation that stood out to me was Trigger Vale Genetics, this family operation proved that even through some hard times they all still work as a family and share the same goals. The Merino breed in Australia has proven to be one of the best wool types, and getting to feel it and see it up close, I can see why it is such as great wool product for the wool market.

Lastly, I would like to say that this trip will never be forgotten. I will always treasure the moments I got to share with Dr. Schaake and his family, and most importantly the fellow K-Staters, and the friendships that will last a long time. I know I will never forget the memories I shared with everyone while I was in Australia. I would like to thank the ASI Department, Mishelle, and the College of Agriculture for letting me be a part of this trip and a representative of Kansas State University on such a great opportunity.

Cheers !
-Kara Schwarzkopf