Handshake from Home - Scholarship to help Anthony's Future

February 12, 2009

Anthony Hill, who lives in Kaarimba, is the 2009 SPC Ardmona Home Grown Scholarship recipient. Anthony will commence his studies in Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering at Swinburne University in March 2009.
The scholarship is open to those starting first year study in a science based degree, such as food science and technology, environmental, occupational health and safety or an engineering degree in mechanical, electrical or environmental engineering.
“The scholarship means that I won’t have to work as much during Uni and will allow me to focus on my studies” Anthony, 19, said. “It is also practical because I will be able to get advice on projects from SPC Ardmona and that will really help out.” “After I finish I’d like to work in the industry and design control systems.”
SPC Ardmona managing director Nigel Garrard said the scholarship provided the financial assistance over four years and included work experience within the business.

"We recognise the potential of students in the Goulburn Valley and want to harness their talents to benefit our business and community," Mr Garrard said.

What is the purpose of the scholarship?

The SPC Ardmona Home Grown Scholarship Program is designed to keep the best and brightest students in the Goulburn Valley / Shepparton area through educational development coupled with ongoing work experience at SPC Ardmona. The scholarship holder will be rewarded for their commitment to a career that will help sustain the economic growth of the Goulburn Valley area.

Who is eligible for the scholarship?

In order to qualify for this scholarship, students must:

• Be commencing first year study in science based degree with major/majors in Food Science and Technology, Environment, OH&S OR and engineering degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Environmental Engineering at any Australian university (proof of a university offer must be produced at the interview stage)
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia
• Be a resident of the Goulburn Valley area
• Have completed the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or equivalent
• Have a superior record of academic achievement and involvement in school life
• Agree to attend paid work experience at SPC Ardmona during annual university semester breaks
• Be available for an interview in person at SPC Ardmona in January 2009

What financial support is available through the scholarship?

The scholarship provides a grant of $5,000 per annum (maximum $20,000 over 4 years) for full-time study to contribute towards the costs for a student to gain a qualification at any Australian university. It is envisaged that the grant will cover costs such as course fee liabilities, Student Union fees, accommodation and textbooks.

How do I apply?

Please refer to this website in November of each year to view details about the next round of applications.

How is the scholarship holder chosen?

A selection committee made up of SPC Ardmona and Goulburn Valley community representatives will evaluate applications for the scholarship. Short-listed applicants must be available to attend a one-hour interview at SPC Ardmona in Shepparton at the commencement of the scholarship year. All applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision.

Scholarship Conditions

• Full-time study must be completed in the minimum length of time for the qualification
• Yearly grants of $5,000 will be paid in 2 parts on a bi-annual basis at the commencement of each semester (February and August)
• Ongoing funding will be subject to an annual progress review. The successful applicant will need to provide results to the selection committee at the conclusion of second semester each year. As a general guide, the successful applicant would need to maintain a credit average in order to obtain continued scholarship support. Failure of a subject may result in the discontinuation of the scholarship
• The scholarship holder must commit to spend at least 6 weeks per annum, for the duration of the scholarship, undertaking paid work experience at SPC Ardmona in a field relevant to their tertiary studies
• The scholarship holder will be required to sign a publicity release form in order to participate in marketing activities. This may include attendance at industry conferences or TV and print media promotion
• The scholarship recipient will be required to sign a statutory declaration demonstrating that they are of good character and reputation

Application form for 2009

To download application form for the Homegrown Scholarship for 2009, please click here!