History of Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre
Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre (MRSC) was formerly known as Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture, which was established in 1963. It opened in February of that year as part of the Yanco Agricultural Research Station, in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area. The first course to be offered was the Farm Certificate one-year course, aimed at training farmers' sons who wished to return to the family farm.
In 1965, the centre was named the Yanco Agricultural College, a name that was retained until 1981 when it was renamed Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture to overcome the confusion of identity with Yanco Agricultural High School.
At the end of 1981 the Department of Agriculture undertook a major review of the college. One of the most significant changes to be introduced as a result of the review was the expansion of the short course program which began in 1986 following the appointment of a Manager of Continuing Education.
The college progressively upgraded its courses to be accredited by the NSW Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board (VETAB). In 1995, it adopted competency-based training to conform to the National Training Reform Agenda.
In December 2003 full-time courses at the college were discontinued, and resources were refocused on the delivery of short courses. In 2004 a comprehensive range of short courses aimed at primary producers and small farm owners was developed, and these courses were delivered in over 25 towns in NSW. Close to 1400 clients underwent training during that year.
In 2005, as a result of client feedback, NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) staff developed several new short courses, delivering them in new ways, with new technology, and at times and venues more convenient for our participants. A wide range of short courses are now offered, and accommodation is available at the Centre.
Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture was renamed Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre on 1 January 2006.
Yanco Agricultural Institute and the Leeton Field Station
Yanco Agricultural Institute incorporates the Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre; research, advisory and regulatory functions; the Administrative Paying Centre; and the Leeton Field Station. Brief histories of the Yanco Agricultural Institute and the Leeton Field Station are available.