Research shows that students who study in regional areas are more likely to remain there, with place of origin and regional placements shaping long-term career pathways.
The enhanced scholarships are designed to retain talent and skills within dairy communities by strengthening pathways into study and work.
The new scholarships include:
- Priority Tertiary Scholarships: Up to $90,000 over four years, inclusive of a $10,000 post-graduate incentive. Up to five available. Eligible degrees are Agriculture, Agribusiness, Food Science & Nutrition, Engineering, Medicine and Veterinary Science.
- Regional Tertiary Scholarships: Up to $30,000 to $40,000 over three to four years. Up to three available. Eligible study at regional universities or colleges in Agriculture, Animal Science, Business, Engineering, Food Science & Nutrition, and Health.
- TAFE Scholarships: Up to three of these scholarships will be delivered in partnership with industry and available exclusively through industry channels.
The scholarships are named in honour of dairy leaders Neil Black, Shirley Harlock, Jakob Malmo, Bill Pyle and Doug Weir, whose dedication and leadership helped shape the industry.
Since 2008, Gardiner has invested more than $1.9 million in 82 scholarships, with over 70 per cent of past scholars choosing to remain in, and contribute to, dairy communities.
“These scholarships encourage students to study, work and build their lives in dairy regions,” Gardiner chief executive Allan Cameron said.
“Linking support to regional study and placements helps strengthen local capacity in areas such as health care, engineering, veterinary science, food technology and agribusiness.
“With the involvement of TAFEs, universities and industry partners, these new scholarships aim to create clearer pathways into meaningful regional careers.”
Applications close at 5pm on Monday, November 24. For full details, visit: gardinerfoundation.com.au/ts
