Sarina State High School (SSHS) students Katie Stevenson and Wyatt McKewen were each awarded a $2000 Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship at this week’s SSHS Awards Night.
SSHS Grade 10 students were invited to apply for the scholarships which promote a commitment to education and community involvement, whilst providing funding to support their education and development in senior schooling, for items such as excursions, textbooks and technology.
Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich emphasised Community Bank Sarina’s dedication to reinvesting profits back into the community and supporting the next generation through high school, apprenticeship and higher education scholarships.
“Scholarships are an investment not only in each student’s future but in the future of our entire community, and I want to congratulate Katie and Wyatt on their impressive efforts in applying for and attaining these scholarships,” Ms Franettovich said.
“By fostering local expertise and encouraging a commitment to lifelong learning, we can strengthen our community whilst nurturing future leaders and community citizens.”
SSHS 2025 Senior Schooling Scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson, expressed her gratitude for this “incredible opportunity”, noting her appreciation for Community Bank Sarina’s confidence in local students.
“It's not just the monetary value, but also the support and encouragement you gain,” Ms Stevenson said.
Katie also encouraged students to apply for scholarships, highlighting the importance of receiving feedback throughout the process.
“The application experience with Community Bank Sarina was extremely helpful, guidance empowers applicants to improve if they wish to apply for other scholarships in the future.”
Fellow recipient Wyatt McKewen said he always strives to do his best and that receiving the scholarship felt like a rewarding acknowledgment of his hard work.
“Scholarships are important to students like me as we can take part in extra school programs and courses to expand our opportunities, without adding an extra financial burden,” Mr McKewen said.
Community Bank Sarina has partnered with SSHS since 2017 to offer scholarships and awards, creating valuable learning and development opportunities for students.
To learn more about Community Bank Sarina scholarships, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.
(L-R) Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May, SSHS scholarship recipients Wyatt Mckewen and Katie Stevenson, Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich