Griffith’s DeanArmanini and Deniliquin’s Emily Manzin have both been offered support in 2026 to support their goals of contributing to the district agriculture industry.
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Both students at Charles Sturt University - studying agriculture and agricultural science respectively - they have been named as recipients of Rice Industry Scholarships for 2026.
Dean was awarded the $10,000 Greg Graham Memorial Scholarship, and Emily the $3000 Peter Connor Book Award.
Dean has his sights set on a future career in agronomy and, in addition to his studies, is employed full‑time at Terra Ag Services in Griffith.
He also became a member of the RGA in his own right, following in his family’s footsteps.
The RGA said his dedication and commitment to the rice industry make him a deserving recipient of this year’s scholarship.
"I believe the most significant challenge currently facing the rice industry is the reduced availability of water for agricultural use,“ Dean said.
“This issue has emerged due to changing water policies and the increased prioritisation of water recovery for environmental and other purposes, as a third-generation rice grower from a family that has produced rice since 1967.
“I am highly aware of the importance of developing knowledge and adopting sustainable farming practices.
Greg Graham Memorial Scholarship winner Dean Armanini.
“However, without reliable access to sufficient water allocations, the capacity to grow rice is significantly reduced.”
Emily already has an association with the RGA through her participation in its 2025 Next Generation Leadership Program, where the association said she demonstrated her passion for leadership and her commitment to the growth of our industry.
“Through my studies, including a recent summer cropping subject that involved four days in Griffith with a strong focus on rice, as well as my own on-farm experience, I have developed a clearer understanding of the complexity of the challenges facing the industry,” Emily said.
“I am interested in continuing to build my knowledge of the rice industry and irrigation regions, particularly how best-practice research, extension, and communication can support growers in managing ongoing uncertainty.
“Recent seasons have highlighted the impact of reduced allocations and high-water prices, significantly reducing the area under rice cultivation and growers' profitability.
“This uncertainty is affecting not only individual farm businesses but also regional communities, employment, and industries that rely on irrigated agriculture, including the rice industry, such as Deniliquin and its rice mill.”
Since the inception of the Rice Industry Scholarships in 2001, the awards have supported more than 40 agriculture students.
The RGA said many have returned to their home regions to contribute valuable skills and knowledge to regional communities and farming businesses.
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