‘Be confident in yourself and be confident in what you can achieve. Embrace your education opportunities and be inspired by the service of your forebears.’
His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC, DSC, (Retd)
His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC, DSC, (Retd) and Her Excellency Mrs Hurley hosted a presentation ceremony for AVCAT scholars and recipients of the Long Tan Bursary at Admiralty House on Thursday 20th of May. After thanking the supporters and donors who make the scholarships possible, the Governor-General spoke directly to the scholars and encouraged them to make the most of their opportunity.
‘Be confident in yourself and be confident in what you can achieve. Embrace your education opportunities and be inspired by the service of your forebears.’
AVCAT alumnus Thomas Hooper gave an inspiring speech on the challenges he has faced on the road to becoming a doctor, and expressed his gratitude for the valuable financial and personal support from AVCAT and his sponsor TPI NSW. He spoke about how his positive mindset led to a Faculty Commendation for 2020.
In attendance were family of each scholar as well as representatives from the Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Mr Don Spinks AM Repatriation Commissioner, scholarship sponsors from ex-service organisations including TPI NSW, and individual donors.
Scholarships Manager, Robyn Richardson remarked, ‘Admiralty House on Sydney Harbour was the perfect setting to congratulate our NSW and ACT 2021 scholars, and talk with their sponsors, friends and family members over afternoon tea made possible by the generosity of our patron the Governor General.’
AVCAT CEO Len Russell said, ‘I enjoyed speaking with our scholars and learning about their career aspirations on completing their scholarships. I would like to wish all our 2021scholars the best as they commence their studies.’
With thanks to photographer Jesse Welsh, and the photographer at Admiralty House.