218 future agriculture leaders will today graduate from the NSW Government’s Tocal College destined for careers spanning livestock production, cropping, farm management, equine studies and agtech in the satte’s $25 billion agriculture sector.
Tocal College is the State’s leading agriculture education institute with 2,400 students enrolled in courses at 73 locations around NSW, making it one of the biggest and oldest agriculture education organisations in Australia.
Today’s graduation took place at Tocal’s campus in Paterson in the State’s Hunter region.
“Today’s graduation is a proud moment for every student, their families, and the broader agricultural community,” said Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty.
“From livestock production and cropping to Agtech and sustainable land management, the training delivered at Tocal ensures students are ready to contribute from day one on the job.
“As agriculture continues to evolve, Tocal College remains agile and forward‑looking, integrating new technologies, modern production techniques and emerging industry needs into its training.
“The achievements of this year’s graduates speak to the exceptional teaching, mentorship and real‑world experience they receive at Tocal.
“Each student has earned the skills and confidence needed to build meaningful careers and contribute to a stronger agricultural future for the state.”
Among the 2025 graduates to receive top honours are:
- Alyvia Lieb, from East Seaham in the Hunter, Dux of Certificate III in Agriculture (Tocal Agricultural Production Program);
- Grace Shields, from Lakesland in the Hunter, Dux of Certificate III in Horse Care (Tocal Stock Horse Breeding and Training Program);
- Sarah Hanks, from Louth Park in the Hunter, Dux of Certificate IV in Agriculture (Tocal Farm Supervisor and Agribusiness Program);
- Natalia Luci, from Mangrove Mountain in the Central Coast, Dux of Certificate IV in Agriculture (Traineeship Program).
“Studying at Tocal has strengthened my passion for agriculture and given me the confidence to start building a career in the industry. I’m grateful for the support of my trainers and the friends I’ve made along the way,” said Ms Lieb.
Ms Shields said the program had pushed her to grow both personally and professionally.
“I’m excited to take these skills into the equine industry and keep learning,” she said.
Through its practical, industry-aligned training programs, Tocal supports both new entrants to agriculture and those already working in farming, agribusiness and natural resource management. Its focus on developing skills, lifting safety standards and supporting productivity ensures NSW remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation, said Minister Moriarty.
“Tocal’s educational outcomes continue to exceed national standards, with full-time program completion rates more than 40% higher than the national average,” she said.
Visit Tocal College website for information – https://www.tocal.nsw.edu.au/home.
