September 28, 2017
Applications for one of the South Burnett’s most sought after tertiary scholarships will close this Saturday, September 30.
The Dr Ellen Mary Kent Hughes Memorial Scholarship provides a $5000 grant to a South Burnett woman who is intending begin university study in 2018.
The bursary is coordinated each year by not-for-profit organisation South Burnett Women with the aim of creating opportunities for women in the local region.
South Burnett Women President Caroline Cavanagh said women of all ages and backgrounds were encouraged to apply.
“Education can open many doors for women, but it can also be a significant investment,” Ms Cavanagh said.
“We hope this $5000 grant may enable a worthy applicant to further her studies and explore opportunities that weren’t previously possible.”
Dr Ellen Mary Kent Hughes worked as a medical practitioner early last century and became Queensland’s first female councillor when she was elected to Kingaroy Shire Council in 1923.
Ms Cavanagh said as a professional woman Dr Hughes Kent set the bar extremely high.
“This inspirational woman was made honorary paediatrician at the Armidale and New England Hospital, government medical officer and justice of the peace,” she said.
“She’s described as being tireless in her ministrations, firm in admonitions and resolute in answering calls. Importantly she never considered being a woman a disadvantage.”
This year’s scholarship has received financial support from local businesses and individuals including Deb Frecklington MP; SBcare; South Burnett CTC; South Burnett District Law Association; BGA; Swickers Kingaroy Bacon Factory; Kewpie Stockfeeds; Schuey Bros. Drilling; Peanut Company of Australia; and Anitta Stallwood.
“We’d like to thank these ten contributors for their support of this exciting initiative. Without their financial backing the bursary would not be possible,” Ms Cavanagh said.
Further information about the Dr Ellen Mary Kent Hughes Memorial Scholarship including the eligibility and selection criteria is available at available online.
Interviews of applicants will be held at the beginning of November.
