Muresk Institute will soon be hosting the inaugural Drone vs Dog Trials to show school students how technology is changing the face of farming.
The final stage of a program that has involved high schools from around the State, the trials will see students race a drone through an obstacle course in an effort to beat the time set by a highly trained sheepdog.
The student who completes the course with the best time will win a drone for themselves and for their school.
Muresk Institute general manager Prue Jenkins said the program was developed as a fun and engaging way to educate students about the use of technology in agriculture and the range of career options available in the agricultural industry.
“Drone vs Dog is a unique way to show school students the role technology plays in a modern farm,” Prue said.
“Changing the perception of farming and opening young minds up to the possibility of a career in agriculture is a key focus for Muresk and Drone vs Dog is helping us to do that.
“Students are finding out how modern technology like drones can be applied in the agricultural industry and are really excited at the prospect of beating bouncer the sheepdog around the course.”
The Dog vs Dog Trials will be held at Muresk Institute on Friday 19 May 2017.
The latest innovations in agriculture and agribusiness will also be on show as part of the annual Muresk Institute Open Day being held at Muresk on 20 May at 9am to 3pm.
Free to the public, the open day will showcase new techniques, technologies and careers in the agricultural sector, as well as provide visitors with an opportunity to talk with potential employers and training providers.
More information is available from the Muresk Institute website at dtwd.wa.gov.au/mureskinstitute or by phone on 1300 994 031.