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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.
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...
Lacey Burston
By Lacey Burston Lacey Burston My grandpa (Pa) served in the Vietnam War, and his father served in World War II. To say my Pa has had a big impact on my life is an understatement. I have always had...
Madelyne Knape
My father served in the army for twelve years. We moved around a lot for his work. Many people in my family have served in the Australian Army but my father has had the biggest impact on my life. Dad...
Nicholas Meins
I can say, with confidence, that my AVCAT scholarship in its symbolic, and financial power, has given me the reach I needed to grab ahold of my dreams and aspirations. Nicholas with his grandfather Harry Meins, and family members By...
Elizabeth McDonnell
I wish to be a youth worker, I wish to use the opportunity given to me, to help young people like me through this difficult stage in their lives. For this, I would like to give my gratitude and thanks...
Kel-sie van Rees
While I am a little bit scared, I am also extremely excited, and knowing that I have the support of AVCAT makes me feel secure. Thank you AVCAT so much, you have helped a country kid move to the city...
Megan Beecher
By Megan Beecher My name is Megan Beecher, in 2020 I was the recipient of the AVCAT Australian War Widows NSW Scholarship. My Grandfather, Major Arthur McDermott (Grandpa Mac, as he was to my brothers and I) was a veteran,...
Bruce – AVCAT Scholar
My name is Bruce, and I am a 2019 Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT) Scholar and Long Tan Bursary recipient. My father is a Vietnam Veteran, he served in the Royal Australian Navy for nine years as an electronics...
Ruby Dolso
By Ruby Dolso Ruby at Tolmer Falls, NT My name is Ruby Kelly Dolso, and my Grandfather, Geoffrey Kelly, is a Vietnam Veteran. He has been the most influential man in my life and has taught me so many valuable...
