At the age of 23, Lo Tsz Ching also known as ‘Oscar’ has already embarked on a remarkable journey filled with exploration, personal growth, and valuable experiences.
Growing up with three sisters in Hong Kong, her father was a taxi driver and her mother a housewife. At 18 she moved to Taiwan to pursue a degree in Environmental Science at Taiwan University, with plans to open a restaurant with one of her sisters once she graduated.
After completing her studies, she returned home to Hong Kong.
A chance encounter on Facebook with a person named Bacon resulted in Oscar hearing stories about Mildura, a town in Australia known for its vibrant horticultural industry and work opportunities. Intrigued by the prospect of immersing herself in a new culture and gaining valuable experiences, Oscar eagerly embraced the idea, obtained a Working Holiday Maker visa and set off for Mildura, arriving in Australia in September 2022.
Her first job in Mildura was with GrapeCo, and with the help of the Mildura Harvest Trail Service Office, she found herself immersed in the world of table grapes – shoot thinning and wire lifting. This hands-on experience allowed her to develop a keen eye for detail and precision, skills that would prove invaluable in her future endeavours.
Seeking to expand her knowledge, Oscar joined Golden Dried Fruits in Colignan, where she learned vine training. This experience not only broadened her understanding of vineyard management but also showcased her adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges.
After her time at Golden Dried Fruits, Oscar returned to GrapeCo and Jackie’s Farm, where she took on the responsibility of rolling on vines. This role required physical endurance and attention to detail.
In July, Oscar briefly returned to Hong Kong but her passion and love for Australia and her desire to continue her exploration brought her back in August 2023, armed with her second-year visa.
She found herself picking mandarins at Seven Fields, surrounding herself in yet another aspect of the horticultural industry. Additionally, she resumed her work at GrapeCo, engaging in shoot thinning, wire lifting, and bunch trimming.
Oscar’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing new experiences and continuously striving for personal growth. From Hong Kong to Taiwan, and finally to Australia, she has fearlessly pursued her passions, challenged herself, and expanded her horizons. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the importance of seizing opportunities and always striving to do our best.
Oscar’s advice to fellow Working Holiday Makers new to Australia is simple yet powerful: work hard and always do your best. She has learned from her own experiences that giving your all, accepting new challenges, and maintaining a good attitude may lead to amazing personal and professional progress.