University students from Gunnedah were offered a first-hand account how successful careers can be found right here in their hometown.
Eighteen young people embarking on the first stages of their chosen careers were last week announced as the latest recipients of the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund.
On hand to congratulate them was general practitioner registrar and former Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund recipient, Dr Sarah Woodford.
Dr Woodford, who was a fund beneficiary in 2015 and 2016, returned as guest speaker for the presentation ceremony held at The Civic.
The occasion was marked by the announcement of Dr Woodford’s return home to practice at Gunnedah’s Barber Street surgery after several years working away.
“It’s the happiest of full circle moments,” Dr Woodhouse told the audience.
The former Gunnedah South, Gunnedah High and St Mary’s College student explained how her youth was similar to the scholarship recipients of today – having played tennis in Gunnedah, in the shire band and working at Gunnedah Newsagency.
“Ten years on, I’m proud to be training as a rural GP,” she said.
Ms Woodford also urged the next round of scholarship recipients to remember “this community has your back and wants you to succeed, (that’s) worth more than the money in your pocket”.
Also congratulating students was former Gunnedah mayor, Gai Swain OAM, who helped establish the fund more than two decades ago.
“When you look back, some special things stand out for me … this is one of them,” she said.
Mrs Swain said the fund was established to assist Gunnedah students with financial support for further studies, and continues to play an important role in developing the careers of the community’s young people.
Some scholarship recipients were unable to attend last week’s presentation and were accepted on by family on their behalf.
Among those absent was Henry Johns, who is studying a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Newcastle.
His scholarship was accepted by brother Angus who spoke highly of his sibling’s achievement.
“It’s pretty cool to be awarded … very prestigious,” Angus said.
He explained last year was a busy year for Henry who was also linked to Newcastle-based rugby club the Hunter Wildfires in the Sydney Shute Shield competition.
Angus, who is in year 12 and planned to study music post-school, said it was “awesome” how his brother balanced his academic and sporting pursuits.
Read more about scholarship recipients here: Young minds share hopes and aspirations for future careers – Gunnedah Times
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