From Graduate To Agronomist: Nirav Joins Elders Miles

31 March 2026, AU: Fresh out of the Elders Graduate  Agronomy Program, Nirav Ramasar is putting his skills to work in the paddock, recently stepping into a full-time role as an Agronomist with Elders Miles.

Originally from Logan in Queensland, Nirav first heard about the Elders Graduate Agronomy Program through a friend. Intrigued by the opportunity to build a career in agronomy while gaining exposure across the Elders network, he applied for the Program. He progressed through a multi-stage interview process designed to find right graduates who were the right fit.

After securing a place, Nirav began his journey with Elders in Lismore in northern New South Wales. He spent his first few months learning the day-to-day operations of a regional branch.

“Lismore was a smaller branch, so it was a great place to learn how everything works,” he said.

“I spent time in the store with merchandise and got to understand the backend of the business.”

The experience gave Nirav valuable insight into the operational side of agribusiness. He then relocated to Biloela in Central Queensland, where he spent more time working directly with growers and developing his technical knowledge in the field.

“In Biloela I had more opportunities to get out in the paddock and work hands-on,” Nirav said. “I also learned a lot about different chemicals; how to order them, how forecasting works and how that all lines up with what growers need during the season.”

Working across two very different regions helped broaden Nirav’s understanding of how agronomy varies across Australia. From the way branches operate to how seasonal crop management changes between regions.

Another highlight of the Program was the opportunity to connect with other graduates from around the country through graduate development events.

“It was great meeting other grads from across Australia who are going through the same experience,” he said.

“You’re all learning similar things, so it’s good to be able to share ideas and talk through what you’re seeing in different regions.”

Throughout the Program, Nirav said the support from branch teams and mentors made a big difference, particularly when moving to new locations.

“Everyone in the branch and the mentors are really supportive if you want to try something or learn more about an area,” Nirav said.

“When you move somewhere new there’s always people willing to help out, even with things like finding a place to live.”

Nirav finished his graduate program at the Miles branch, where he quickly found an opportunity that aligned with both his professional interests and his connection to the region. He was then offered a full-time agronomist role with the branch.

“I was keen to do more work around forage and pasture, and there’s a lot of that around the Miles and Roma area,” he said.

Now settled into the role, Nirav has already begun building relationships with local growers and taking on clients across the region.

“It can be a tough environment for cropping at times,” he said. “If I can help improve things even a little bit for someone, that’s what keeps me going.”

Looking ahead, Nirav is excited to continue developing his agronomy expertise while helping grow the business across the Miles and Roma region. In particular, he’s keen to explore opportunities around pasture agronomy, an area he believes has strong potential for growers in the region.

Reflecting on his experience, Nirav said the Elders Graduate Agronomy Program gave him the chance to see different parts of the business and encouraged him to make the most of every opportunity.

“To anyone entering into the program, I would encourage them to have an open mind and get involved in as much as you can,” he said.

“Whether it’s agronomy or something outside of it, just take every opportunity by the horns.”

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