Parkes Shire students undertaking their first year of full-time university studies in 2022 are encouraged to apply for a Jack Scoble Scholarship.
Supported by the Parkes Shire Council, the Jack Scoble Scholarship offers local students the chance to receive funding to put towards their tertiary studies, such as the purchase of a laptop and textbooks or, relocation and accommodation costs.
Council's Manager Cultural Education & Library Services Kerryn Jones said, "It's important that we encourage our local school leavers to think about what opportunities are available to them and support them to achieve their aspirations."
"Receiving a financial boost can help make university education more accessible for regional young people to help ease the financial pressures of tertiary studies. I also strongly encourage students who will be registering with the Parkes Country Universities Centre to consider this scholarship as they are also eligible to apply. "
The late Mr Scoble MBE, OAM was Mayor of Parkes from 1966 to 1979. He died in 2003, providing a profound legacy of community involvement, civic pride, leadership and high personal values.
The Jack Scoble Education Scholarships have provided financial assistance to students to the value of $100,000 between 2006 and 2021.
In 2021, Josie Thompson was awarded the Scholarship. Josie is studying a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at the University of Newcastle.
"My first year of university was met with many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The scholarship helped significantly financially, as I was able to purchase textbooks and a printer for my first year at university. Having my own resources was extremely beneficial as I had limited access to physical resources due to the COVID-19 restrictions in place.
"The financial support this scholarship offered allowed me to focus on my studies, which I am really loving," added Josie.
Applicants must be:
- Residents of Parkes Shire who have completed the Higher School Certificate at either a school within the Shire; or a school outside of the Shire as non-boarding students.
- entering their first year of full-time university studies either immediately after graduating high school, or, after a gap period of no longer than 24 months.
- undertaking a course of study that will offer a benefit to the rural community.
Scholarship guidelines and the application form are available on Council's website, www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/living-here/your-community/education/scholarships/
