Local Grade 6 students receive financial boost for secondary school

SEVEN lucky students are receiving financial boosts for their secondary schooling next year after Anglesea’s local Lions and Lionettes Club released its annual bursaries recipients.

Four Anglesea Primary School Grade 6 students have each received $400 and three Aireys Inlet Primary School Grade 6 pupils have received $500 to assist with school supplies for their first years of secondary education.

Anglesea Lionettes president Carmen Koster said the seven bursaries are a slight increase from previous years where the usual amount given has been six, however, the Lions and Lionettes have been able to accommodate the extra bursary in 2024.

“The proceeds come from our yearly Stocking Raffle held at Christmas time from the previous year and is announced around the Easter Period,” Ms Koster said.

“The bursaries, which are requested by the schools, and then the schools select the successful students, will go towards things like books or stationery and other resources.

“It allows us to provide our local kids with a little extra assistance as they embark on the start of a new chapter in their lives.”

The recipients this year include from Anglesea Primary Mila Mathes, Xavier Hotchins, Jerome Landers, and Addis Sedgwick, whereas Aireys Inlet Primary’s recipients include Pema Kruze, Oliver Grabham, and Bonnie Copeland.

Ms Koster said the annual bursaries have been given out for over 10 years, but the occasion remains a highlight on the clubs’ calendars.

“We’re always proud to do this initiative, we see these students as future citizens,” Ms Koster said.

“We’re able to provide a helping hand for them and we appreciate that it doesn’t have to be the cleverest child either.

“The selection criteria for the bursaries each year is based on citizenship, endeavour, commendable work habits, and community interest.”