Stories
The voice of the scholar is the single most important feature in assessing and realising the impact of a scholarship. We are proud of all of our scholars. Here are some their stories reflecting on their journey.
Ryan Fletcher – AVCAT Scholar
I am proud of my Dad’s service in Vietnam, and to be awarded the Long Tan Bursary means a lot. I know my Dad, in turn, can be proud of me. By Ryan Fletcher Supplied: Ryan surrounded by members of...
Seraphina Smith – AVCAT Scholar
Although I possess an innate drive to succeed, I am also motivated by a desire to excel for my sponsor who has supported me throughout my studies and its accompanying challenges. Whilst my peers worried about job security and housing...
A Moment’s Silence
AVCAT Scholar Madelyne Reflects on Remembrance Day By Madelyne Knape Remembrance Day, the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour, a day where peace finally fell over the battlefield after years of bloodshed; a day first observed...
Macey Bennett – AVCAT Scholar
Every person has a unique perspective on the way the world has shaped them, and everyone has a unique story to convey how they walk the earth. My family, my passions, and the opportunities in my life have influenced the...
AVCAT Scholar – Georgia Caire
I have been financially independent since I moved away from home at 18. Receiving the Long Tan Bursary has been life changing. By Georgia Caire Georgia and her Pop For personal reasons I do not have contact with my father....
Sarah Phillips on NAIDOC Week
Sarah and her children My name is Sarah Phillips, and I am an Aboriginal woman from the Gold Coast. I am in my second year of a Bachelor of Midwifery at Southern Cross University. I am a mother to four...
Kerry Hespe
I have a brain injury, but what is the use of being alive unless I continue to do my best, be my best and show my two girls that I'm not perfect, but I'll continue to improve. By Kerry Hespe...
Nicole Watson – AVCAT Scholar
‘Like many disabled scholars I refuse to let my impairments control my life, I will find other ways to make my dreams happen.’ By Nicole Watson I am incredibly humbled to be awarded the 2021 RSL Queensland Scholarship and to...
Jess Simmonds – AVCAT Scholar
I would love to become a researcher and learn more about the ways that trauma and PTSD develop; impact the brain; the body; and someone’s life. I would also love to learn and develop ways to counsel those who have...
Melinda Thomas – AVCAT Scholar
My father served as an engineer in the Australian Army for over a decade, and sadly later lost his life due to an illness developed over the course of his service overseas in Iraq. My siblings and I were raised...
