Deakin interns form link to industry in Western Victoria

Deakin University's industry-based learning program is forging closer links between the university and regional industry.

One of the students to take up an internship this semester, Josh Graybiel, has been working with WestVic Dairy to compile a report on the dairy industry's status in south-west Victoria.

The project has been a real eye-opener for Josh who is on a one-semester exchange from Michigan State University in the USA.

"From an outsider's perspective it is very interesting to gain an understanding of the dairy industry," he said. "We have a dairy industry in Michigan but nothing like what you have here. Every time you look out the window you see cows."

Josh, who is studying freshwater and marine science, said he asked about taking part in an internship so he could learn more about local industry and to sharpen his report writing skills.

"I wanted to have some professional practical experience and saw the potential for growth in report writing. It has been a real pleasure for me," he said.

WestVic Dairy Executive Officer Mike Weise said the internship was working very well. "Josh is putting together a summary of more than 30 documents about the dairy industry in south-west Victoria that will make it much easier to present to the broader community," Mr Weise said.

"It will make it much easier for people to pick out the key data about our industry," he said.

Professor Gerry Quinn from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at the Deakin University Warrnambool Campus said internships were a good opportunity for students to become involved in the local community.

"It is also a great way for Deakin to contribute and support our local industries," Professor Quinn added.