Scholarship program for youth

A student from Neerim District will again benefit from a scholarship program, which will supplement their study costs in their first year of higher education.

Neerim District Community Bank branch chairman Tim Kubale said the Beth Delzoppo - Neerim District Community Bank Scholarship Program, which opens in December, was launched because the Branch believed local students deserved a fair chance to achieve their dreams.

“We know an investment in their education will help young people gain access to tertiary education and will yield great returns to the student, their families and the local community,” he said.

“Ultimately, we want to be part of a system that transforms the lives of local students, so we’re committed to creating pathways to allow that opportunity.

“Our young people are our future and we believe they need the best support possible to achieve their dreams.”

Successful scholarship applicants will initially receive funding for one year and depending on academic performance, the scholarship may be renewed to assist in the second year of their study.

Applications are invited from eligible students, starting their studies in 2017. Applications close on January 27, 2017 and will be assessed in early February 2017.

Last year, the Neerim District Community Bank Branch scholarship supported local student Lucinda Miller with her studies at Melbourne University.

Lucinda said the scholarship gave her the necessary funds to find accommodation on campus, relieving the financial pressure of attending university.

“I am grateful to Neerim District Community Bank Branch for helping me to attend university and to pursue my ambitions,” Ms Miller said.

The Neerim District Community Bank Scholarship is part of the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Scholarship Program, which partners with Community Bank® branches, Rural Bank, Community Sector Banking, La Trobe University, University of Melbourne and Haven Home Safe.

The program has now supported 450 students, with $5.2 million in funding since its inception in 2007.

For further information contact Neerim District Community Bank Branch on 5628 1079, or visit the website www.bendigobank.com.au/scholarships..

Each year more than 20 per cent of Neerim District Secondary College students develop leadership skills across a range of areas. Pictured is the 2016 College leadership group.