21 September 2018

The GCSF is an initiative of the local community and provides financial support for local youth choosing to further their studies in tertiary education.

Gunnedah’s Kustiani Tuckerman received a scholarship in 2018 and is most appreciative to the community for the funds that helped with the start-up costs of her engineering degree.

“I haven’t seen anything else like the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund, and neither have any of the students I attend Wollongong University with,” Miss Tuckerman said.

“The best part is the flexibility of the funds; it meant I could purchase my textbooks upfront and sign up for the university AFL team.

“I am really grateful for the town’s generosity.”

Since the GCSF’s inception 15 years ago, over $300,000 across more than 330 scholarships has been awarded to local students. Scholarships have covered many disciplines where students travel away to study at university or apply for traineeships or apprenticeships locally.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong said GCSF relies wholly on sponsorship from local businesses and organisations.

“The amount of money and the number of recipients who receive funds depends on the sponsorship and donations from community organisations and businesses who would like to see youth move ahead in tertiary education,” Ms Emojong said.

“There are many benefits to being a supporter of the GCSF, not least of all providing opportunities for local students to pursue their career goals.”

Miss Tuckerman offered a piece of advice for those considering applying to the GCSF.

“You should do it! Have a well-rounded resume, think about it before you submit and don’t leave it too late,” she said.

Applications for the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund are now open and close on Monday, 17 December 2018 for the 2019 round. To apply, visit the Gunnedah Shire Council website on www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au

For more information about the Scholarship or to become a sponsor, contact Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au

Photo Caption: 2018 Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund recipients Emily-Jane Hollingworth and Kustiani Tuckerman with Gunnedah Shire Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100