Scholarships help students give back

APPLICATIONS for the next round of Youthrive Victoria’s university and rural chances scholarships are open.

Since 2011, the not-for-profit organisation has provided more than $2.75 million in financial support to young people from rural and regional areas.

Creswick local Molly Davies was awarded a university scholarship last year funded by Community Bank Creswick and District.

Ms Davies studied occupational therapy at Australian Catholic University. She said the scholarship has supported her financially and created new opportunities.

“Growing up in Creswick gave me a real sense of community; one I’ve carried with me throughout my studies,” she said.

“The scholarship has allowed me to meet passionate rural young leaders, attend the young rural leaders program, and even launch the first-ever OT Club at ACU.

“But I’m most proud of starting a summer mixed netball team at Newlyn Football Netball Club. It brought young people together and strengthened our local community spirit.”

Community Bank Creswick and District will be offering one university and two rural chances scholarships in 2025.

The university scholarship provides $30,000 in funding over three years plus mentoring and leadership opportunities, while rural chances scholarships provide $5000 to students completing vocational training.

The scholarships are merit based and awarded to young people from rural or regional Victoria who want to return and contribute to their community.

“We believe that our scholarships and programs are helping to create positive outcomes for students from rural and regional Victoria,” Youthrive Victoria chief executive officer Andrew McGuckian said.

“We hope to see a large number of applications for both our university and TAFE scholarships this year.”

Applications for the university scholarships close Friday 15 August while rural chances applications close Monday 20 October.

For more information, head to the Youthrive Victoria website.