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.
Sonya McDowall – AVCAT Scholar
The Long Tan Bursary has made a huge difference in easing the financial pressures of being an older student and has enabled me to continue to work towards achieving my dream. By Sonya McDowall Sonya and her hearing assistance dog...
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...
