In every community, there are young people with the talent, determination and work ethic to succeed — they just need someone to back them in.
Thanks to a powerful partnership between the Goulburn Murray Local Learning and Employment Network and the Greater Shepparton Foundation, more of those young people are now getting that chance.
The Employment and Vocational Training Scholarships are designed to remove one of the most common barriers facing young people pursuing apprenticeships, vocational training or short courses: cost.
From course fees and textbooks to tools, travel and equipment, the scholarship provides practical support where it’s needed most.
For Olivia Hanley, that support has already helped.
Olivia is the first recipient of the Employment and Vocational Training Scholarship, securing funding to support her as she undertakes Certificate IV in Community Service and build towards a career in her chosen field.
Like many young people starting out, the cost of the course and materials, including travel presented a significant hurdle.
Thanks to the scholarship, that barrier has been lifted, allowing Olivia to focus on developing her skills and confidence rather than worrying about how to afford the basics.
Her achievement is more than personal success; it represents what is possible when community organisations work together with a shared purpose.
“Our community is full of talented, motivated young people who just need a bit of help to get started,”, GMLLEN executive officer Bec Costa-Lowe said.
“By working with Greater Shepparton Foundation, we can leverage the existing Lift Off Scholarship framework to reach more individuals and provide support that genuinely changes lives.”
The program has also attracted strong backing from local service organisations committed to equity and opportunity.
Financial support from the Soroptimist International Shepparton Inc. and the Rotary Club of Shepparton Central reflects a growing recognition that investing in vocational pathways is investing in the region’s future.
“Soroptimist International Shepparton Inc. is thrilled to provide support to a young woman chasing her dreams of a hands-on career in traditionally male dominated fields,” president Katrina Mooney said.
“We are investing in her future by empowering her to be educated in her chosen profession. Why?
“Because we believe women belong in every industry, including the ones with steel cap boots and tool belts.
“By helping to cover cost, we are not just supporting her journey, we are breaking down barriers and backing equality in workplaces.”
Rotary Club of Shepparton Central president Allen Gale echoed that sentiment: “Rotary is all about community, and if we can assist young people with a scholarship to help with books, tools and other essentials to ease the financial burden, then I think we all win.”
And that is exactly the point.
In regional areas like Greater Shepparton, skills shortages are real.
Local businesses need apprentices. Industries need trained workers.
At the same time, young people need clear, supported pathways into stable and meaningful employment.
Scholarships like this one connect those dots and strengthen futures while building local economic resilience.
Olivia’s story is the first of what we hope will be many.
Her determination, combined with the community’s belief in her potential, shows what can happen when financial barriers are replaced with practical support and encouragement.
The Employment and Vocational Training Scholarship is now open to young people undertaking an apprenticeship, vocational training pathway or short course who need financial assistance.
If you, or someone you know needs support you can apply through the ‘Scholarships’ page on our website at greatershepparton.foundation
Because, sometimes, all it takes to change a life, and a community, is a little support at the right time.
Until next time.
Amanda McCulloch
Greater Shepparton Foundation executive officer
