The scholarships were presented at a formal ceremony on Tuesday, 17 February, recognising the outstanding academic achievements, community spirit and future aspirations of the successful applicants.
Encouragingly for the region, all three recipients are pursuing careers in the medical and health fields - professions that are in high demand across rural and regional communities.
Ellie Parker, from Peak Hill and a graduate of Red Bend Catholic College, has commenced a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Charles Sturt University. Ellie has long aspired to become a physiotherapist and hopes to return to the Parkes Shire after completing her studies to support the local community.
Naomi Dunn, from Bogan Gate, attended Parkes High School where she served as School Captain in 2025. With a long-held ambition to become a doctor, Naomi completed work experience at the local hospital and has now commenced a Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at University of New England in Armidale.
Lara Smith, from Parkes and a former student of Red Bend Catholic College, has begun a Bachelor of Psychology at University of Technology Sydney. Lara was inspired to pursue this field after witnessing firsthand the shortage of mental health services in the Parkes Shire. She hopes to become a licensed psychiatric specialist with a focus on supporting the mental health of children and adolescents.
Each successful applicant will receive $5,000 to assist with their transition into university studies. At the conclusion of their first year, recipients will provide Council with a report outlining how the scholarship supported them during their first year of tertiary education.
Ellie Parker, who attended the ceremony in person, said,
"Thank you for this opportunity- it is really helpful. I am incredibly grateful. It's amazing."
Naomi Dunn's mother, Kylie, attended the ceremony on her behalf and expressed Naomi's appreciation for the support, saying she is deeply grateful for the opportunity.
Lara Smith, who joined the ceremony online, said:
"I want to thank Council and everyone involved for making this happen. It is a great opportunity to receive support, especially when I am so far from home."
Council received ten applications for the 2026 Jack Scoble Scholarship, with six shortlisted candidates invited to interview on 2 February 2026. Applicants were assessed on academic merit, chosen field of study and career plans, equity and financial circumstances, and community and regional involvement.
The Jack Scoble Scholarship Program was established in 2006 in honour of Jack Scoble OAM, who served as Mayor of Parkes from 1960 to 1979. Mr Scoble was a passionate advocate for young people and strongly believed in creating opportunities for youth to achieve their full potential.
Following his passing in 2003, the scholarship was created to ensure his legacy of service and commitment to education continues within the community.
Jack Scoble's daughter, Alison also attended online and said it is a privilege to share this special occasion with the recipients. "Thank you, Council, for your ongoing support of this scholarship."
She told the recipients: "I am grateful this has been provided to you today. I want to congratulate you on your work so far and believe you will all make us proud. I would encourage you to take some inspiration from Jack Scoble."
The scholarship is offered annually to students completing their Higher School Certificate at a school within the Parkes Shire and commencing their first year of full-time university study. Applicants must demonstrate academic merit, entry into an approved course of study, and the potential for their education to benefit the wider community.
Captions:
Group photo:
Attending the formal ceremony to recognise the Jack Schoble Scholars were the recipients, family members and Parkes Shire Councillors.
Individual photos:
- Ellie Parker from Peak Hill with Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott. The Mayor is holding a portrait of former Mayor of Parkes, Jack Scoble.
- Naomi Dunn's mother, Kylie, attended the ceremony on behalf of Naomi to receive her certificate. She is with Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott.
- Lara Smith (top right corner of the screen) joined the ceremony online.
