Friday, January 24, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Bank Supports Local Students With $30,000 In Scholarships

Students starting certain degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity this year can apply for a share of $30,000 in scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

The program includes two $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region.”

“Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends, and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms. Franettovich said.

“This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring, and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.”

Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2025, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science, and teaching.

In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality, and mechanical trades.

Emma Simpson, a 2024 scholarship recipient and apprentice at Aurizon, is currently undertaking her Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade at CQUniversity.

She shared that the strong encouragement from her friends and family inspired her to apply.

"I'm so glad I took their advice, as the Community Bank Sarina scholarship has opened up new pathways for my career,” Ms Simpson said.

Looking ahead, Emma plans to pursue additional qualifications and credits the scholarship for creating opportunities to explore other areas of interest.

"This support has made it possible to broaden my horizons and consider even more possibilities for my future."

Another former Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipient, Jaymi Cook, also achieved an exciting milestone in December, graduating from CQUniversity with a Bachelor of Digital Media. Jaymi has since secured local employment in her field, marking a significant step forward in her career.

2025 Community Bank Sarina Scholarship applications close on 28 February. To request further details or a scholarship application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

Last year’s Community Bank Sarina Scholarship Recipients (L-R) Matthew Dorl, Emma Simpson, Jordana Kelly and Brooke Jensen. Photo supplied

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