2016 Winner – Lois Kowald

June 2, 2017


Pictured: 2016 Kott Gunning Scholarship Winner Lois Kowald and sponsor Tim Lethbridge from Kott Gunning

Scholarship makes a difference

Lois Kowald already had a background in agriculture having grown up on a sheep, cattle and cropping farm in Katanning before taking a “leap of faith” to attend the Denmark-based WA College of Agriculture.

“At that time I was not sure if I wanted to pursue a career within the industry,” says Lois who determined it was “one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

That choice has, in a way, led to this young woman carrying off the 2016 Kott Gunning Scholarship. Having partnered with the Royal Agricultural Society of WA a couple of years ago, this leading West Australian law firm established a bursary for young West Australians studying at university for a future career in the agricultural industry.

Lois, 19, who is currently studying Agribusiness at Curtin University, believes “agriculture is one of the world’s most important economies.”

This young woman’s enthusiasm for her industry has given her the drive to succeed in all areas of her life – from a number of College and university accomplishments, to her proficiency as a pianist and sportswoman- the latter she holds an accreditation in netball umpiring and national netball coaching.

With her focus firmly on research within agriculture Lois says:

“My future ambitions include returning to the country where I can be involved in research incorporated directly with the farming community. I believe the connecting bodies from research to farm practice will continue to help develop small and large scale operations in order to increase business potential and agricultural sustainability. The best improvement will come from looking at a business as a whole and not focusing on any one part.

“Working in an industry that you are passionate about gives you drive to achieve great things and make a difference no matter the scale.”

Being awarded a scholarship will make a big difference to this student.