Powered by our People: Jacob Thuijs – Agronomist, St George QLD

Since moving to St George in South West Queensland in 2014, Jacob Thuijs has become a quiet leader in his community,  

“I moved to the area in 2014, straight after school, and over the past almost-decade have worked across a range of roles in the cotton industry, from contracting to mechanical and now agronomy services,” said Jacob. 

“St George is a close-knit community and the local cotton industry has shown me a lot of support and encouragement in my career. Over the past two years, I have been fortunate to work simultaneously within retail agronomy with Nutrien Ag Solutions and with the private consultancy, Western Rivers Agriculture. This has allowed me to collaborate with various cotton producers, from small to large family operations and corporate farms.” 

“Working at Nutrien has given me insight into retail operations, along with a wealth of information and experience provided by senior agronomists within the industry. It has also developed my ability to think critically and to have a proactive attitude, and I’m using that experience to create a hub of connection and communication between young growers in our region and the research industry.” 

Tackling generational change  

Through his role on the St George Cotton Growers Association (CGA) committee, Jacob has assisted in coordinating ‘Teach the Teacher’ events to help take the cotton story back into local classrooms; as well as organising a young cotton growers tour to the Namoi Valley to visit a number of research sites and events.  

“There’s a generational change happening in our region, with other young people returning to start their careers in agriculture. Some are in the process of taking over family farms, and others are taking up managerial positions within corporate farms in the district. I have a role in helping these young growers connect and communicate,” said Jacob.  

“The young cotton growers tour helped address an issue I’ve noticed and experienced myself, where younger people just starting their careers are less likely to engage and ask questions at these sorts of events when surrounded by older, more experienced peers.” 

“For me, this is about adding value for my growers by cutting through the information clutter and giving them access to the field days and valley research presentations that matter.” 

“I am now in a position where I can give back to the industry through my work and personal life. Learning from my mentors has helped me develop the skills and confidence to go the extra mile for my growers and colleagues and to take on community leadership roles,” said Jacob. 

Striving for continuous improvement  

With almost a decade’s worth of experience in the industry, Jacob has seen cotton growers face constant scrutiny, and says collaboration is the key to longevity.  

“The cotton industry is renowned for its collaborative community, and it’s one of the factors that drew me to setting up my career in the St George cotton industry.”  

“I wish to assist the industry to continue to build its reputation as a modern Australian agricultural success story by fostering a culture of open communication between growers, researchers, and adoption of best practices,” said Jacob. 

“For me, my focus will be on making sure we have a robust myBMP (Best Management Practices) program that demonstrates how we’re doing the best we can with the resources we have. Social license to operate will always be our highest priority.” 

Passing on knowledge and insights  

“My long-term goal is to be in a position where I am able to provide the same guidance, network and support that I have been given by mentors while starting my career in this industry. One thing I have learnt so far is that to do this involves immersing yourself within the industry, putting your hand up to volunteer and to asking questions,” said Jacob. 

“My way of helping the industry towards this vision is to continue increasing my network and knowledge, to openly pass on what I have learnt and be a hub for connections. As an agronomist, I am in a valuable position to be able to speak with multiple growers and industry members on a regular basis and this is something I intend to use to help provide solutions for the industry.” 

“The Australian cotton industry is something that I am extremely proud to be a part of, and the wealth of opportunity it provides to so many regional communities across Australia is vital. It’s only fair that after everything it has given me, I continue to share what the industry has to offer and this message wherever possible.” 

Kerri Jocumsen, Nutrien Ag Solutions Branch Manager at St George said the whole team was very proud of Jacob’s achievements. 

“Jacob is a quiet achiever, but he takes on all opportunities that come his way with enthusiasm and an open mind. From his role on the St George CGA, serving as the President of the St George Jockey Club, to his work as an agronomist and particularly with young growers in our area, he’s a valued member of The Nutrien St George Team, our local community and the wider cotton industry.” 

Jacob is a finalist in the 2023 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Achiever Award, which will be announced at the Cotton Industry Awards dinner in Toowoomba in August, taking place as part of the Cotton Collective.