The Education Support Program of the Mirboo North & District Community Foundation gave out awards of more than $45,000 yesterday. The awards went to students from across our district, including Yinnar, Boolarra and Thorpdale, who want to further their education.
“The Education Support awards are aimed at supporting the upfront costs students face in taking up University and TAFE courses – they can cover everything from laptops to books or materials, from bonds to travel expenses,” said Rob Kiddell, Chair of the Community Foundation.
Community Bank’s Generous Contribution
The Community Bank, Mirboo North & District, has been a long-standing supporter of this program, increasing its financial contribution in 2024.
“The Community Bank has generously sponsored four students heading to University this year,” said Ruth Rogan, Executive Officer, “with each student receiving a total of $6,000 over two years. That is eight students in total receiving $3,000 through the Community Bank’s support this year, as four recipients from 2024 will receive their second installment this week.”
At the awards evening Marg Thomas, Chair of the Community Bank, Mirboo North & District, gave out the 2025 awards to Dinisty Francis, Jett Gundy, Gabrielle Buissink and Indily Francis.
“The Education Support Program does a wonderful job of supporting local students taking the step into University or TAFE. The Community Bank is delighted to be able to support the program and local students, particularly now when the cost of living is really challenging,” said Marg.
Recognising Hardworking Students
Diana Mueller, Chair of the Community Engagement and Grants committee, and Ruth Rogan also presented Education Support awards to:
- Ruby Marks
- Adelle Carter
- Bryce Poland
- Charlotte Pors
- Clancy Mills
- Crystal Tichborne
- Jack Cumming
- Logan Anders
- Mitchell Berechree
- Pamela Viola
- Ruby Cannizzo
Two other award winners, Ella King and Lachlan Meechan, were unable to attend but were also recognised for their achievements.
These students are approaching the next stage of their educational journeys in a wonderful variety of ways. Taking up studies from psychology to cyber security, from education to engineering, from nursing to health and sport sciences, they will study locally, in Melbourne or online for degrees or certificates.
Inspiring Words from Past Students
As Sarah Lawless said on the night “I like to think of Education as patchwork made up of formal and informal learning; each giving you different but equally important skills and capabilities”. Sarah is the Executive Officer of the South Gippsland and Bass Coast LLEN and was emphasising the value in the informal and personal learning that comes from travel or getting involved with clubs at TAFEs and Universities.
It was also a pleasure to hear the advice of Mitchell Dorling during the evening. Mitchell has just completed his double degree in Accounting and Business at Monash University and had three key tips for students embarking on tertiary education. “One, don’t forget to study; two, take all the opportunities to get involved – you will not regret it; and three, have fun.”
If you want to find out more about the Education Support Program, please click here.