In her role, Ms Rippon bridges the gap between principal scientists and DPI research farm staff, ensuring seamless data collection and operational execution.
"Every day is different, which is something I love about my role. It's challenging, but also really rewarding," Ms Rippon said.
The Southern Multi Breed (SMB) Project represents a ground-breaking initiative aimed at advancing agricultural practices and enhancing the resilience of the livestock industry.
By leveraging cutting-edge research methodologies and innovative technologies, the project seeks to optimize breeding strategies, improve productivity, and mitigate environmental impacts.
Ms Rippon’s passion for beef cattle farming was nurtured during weekends and school holidays spent on her grandfather's cattle operation near Grafton.
"I did all the Ag courses in high school and originally thought I wanted to be a vet. But after some work experience, I realized my true interest lay in beef cattle," Ms Rippon said.
Armed with a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Queensland, Ms Rippon's career journey led her to the Northern Territory Department of Primary Industries before joining NSW DPI's Southern Multi Breed (SMB) Project in 2019.
"My position as technical officer with SMB has evolved with the project, presenting new challenges and opportunities every day," Ms Rippon said.
A passion for fertility and reproductive research is evident in Ms Rippon's dedication to the project.
"The fertility aspect is close to my heart because I see it as crucial, especially for producers in the North Coast area," Ms Rippon said.
"Our focus on ovarian scanning data and identifying new fertility traits aims to benefit commercial cattle producers in their day-to-day operations."
Ms Rippon’s commitment to driving innovation and delivering tangible benefits to producers underscores DPI's mission to advance agricultural research and support rural communities.
The $9.4 million-dollar Southern Multi Breed project is co-funded by NSW DPI, UNE, MLA and the Commonwealth Government through the MLA Donor Company (MDC).
Hear Ms Rippon’s full story and involvement in the Southern Multi Breed Project by listening to the Genetics in the Paddock with Emily podcast episode.