Founded in 2004 by president Nigel Liggins, the scholarships aim to support students who are enrolled in any TAFE course.
After discussions with Peter Watson, a co-ordinator within TAFE and several Rotarians, the criteria for the awards were established. In 2006 the first scholarships were awarded.
This year Lauren Jeffers, Maree Couzner, Lachlan Brett and Laura Geier each received a scholarship, receiving $500 and a certificate of recognition for their achievement.
Lauren Jeffers
Lauren is studying her Diploma of Nursing and wishes to continue on to a university to complete a registered nurse qualification.
In her interview she highlighted that travel costs and accommodation needed during her placements were draining financially as she was unable to continue with her casual employment. The scholarship has assisted her with those costs.
Maree Couzner
Maree is studying a Diploma of Community Services. In her interview, her reflections from the course shed new light on a series of issues, including mental health, poverty cycles and LGBTQI. Maree aspires to be community worker or engaged as a counsellor.
Lachlan Brett
Lachlan is studying a Certificate IV in Design. In the long term he wishes to start his own business in apparel. Lachlan hopes to one day donate some of his profits from his designs to a worthwhile cause that supports mental health.
Laura Geier
Laura is finishing her Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping.
Her focus has been to gain a suitable qualification and skills to ensure long term, stable employment.
The scholarship will assist her with the loans and costs associated with studying fulltime with a young family.