Community
10 July, 2024
Cloncurry horse lover rewarded with scholarship
Darcie-Lee Ashton is setting a positive example in her home town.
As students return to school this week, and some stare down the final semester of their secondary studies, young people can take some inspiration from Darcie-Lee Ashton
She is a shining example of how the tyranny of distance is no longer a barrier to tertiary studies for those who wish to pursue their passion while remaining in their home town and making a difference in their community.
The busy Cloncurry local is passionate about her horses, which led her to an interest in animal welfare and to a career as a Local Laws Officer at Cloncurry Shire Council.
It was in this position she also developed an interest in weeds management and biosecurity.
Combining her work and personal interests led her to pursue a Diploma of Agriculture, where the 24-year-old is one of only two students nationwide to be awarded a Rural and Remote scholarship with RuralBiz Training.
With up to 30 per cent of tertiary students now switching to online study following the pandemic, Darcie-Lee said it was possible to undertake studies without having to relocate.
“I think if there are students thinking about their future and what they want to do – they should look at online options because it is possible to stay in your home town and work and do your studies,” she said.
“There is always a belief in North West Queensland that we are out here in a remote area and we are at a disadvantage - but I think we are more advantaged than others.
“My course is flexible – I am only studying one unit at a time so I can combine it with work. All of the practical components of the study I can undertake on properties around Cloncurry. It’s really great because in our town everyone helps each other.”
Darcie-Lee said she now hopes to continue to pursue a career in government, whether it be with local government or the department of agriculture in the future.
“I want to do whatever I can to support the producers in our area,” she said.
“I think we have the best beef producers in the world in our region.”