The scholarship fund is an initiative of the local community and provides an opportunity for local youth to succeed in their tertiary education by encouraging students to embark on a journey of learning by financially supporting those pursuing tertiary studies.

Since the fund’s inception 14 years ago, more than $300,000 across more than 332 scholarships has been awarded to local students.

“Scholarships have covered many disciplines, including accounting, agriculture, allied health, animal science, law, architecture, arts/theatre, civil engineering, education, information technology, medicine, nursing and social work,” Council’s Youth Officer Sewa Emojong said.

2017 recipient Sirrah Harris credits her scholarship as a major benefit in subsidising university costs.

“The funds have helped me tremendously to purchase textbooks and cover the cost of residential schools in Wagga Wagga,” Miss Harris said.

“In order to commence studies in an agricultural degree, it was compulsory for me to be tested for and vaccinated against Q-Fever. The GCSF helped significantly to cover the cost of and to meet this requirement.

The Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund working group has introduced sponsorship packages to provide local businesses with advertising opportunities throughout the next round of funding. For further information, contact council on 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au