Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett has congratulated Wendy Smallcombe and Elise Pearson who are among the first to benefit from the Newman Government’s Supporting Women Scholarships.
Mr Bennett said Wendy and Elise have been awarded a study scholarship of up to $20,000 to help them to launch new careers in traditionally male dominated industries where skilled workers are needed.
“The Supporting Women Scholarship program is a practical way the Newman Government can help women gain qualifications in areas of high skill demand, including architecture, building services, agriculture, engineering, information technology and geology,” Mr Bennett said.
“Wendy and Elise are among 126 women across the state to receive scholarships in this first round, and I wish them all the very best as they commence their studies this year.
“Wendy and Elise were judged on their merit and future potential as well as the local need for qualified workers in Environmental Engineering and Applied Science.
“Selected from a competitive field of nearly 400 applicants, they will use the scholarship money to help with study related costs such as program fees and course materials.”
Mr Bennett will congratulate Wendy personally at Parliament House in Brisbane on Wednesday when she will attend the scholarship presentation. Elise is not able to be present.
Wendy, from Bororen, is a school leaver enrolled to study a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Applied Science at the University of Queensland.
Elise, from South Kolan, is a school leaver enrolled to study a Bachelor of Engineering and Business at Griffith University.
“I wish them both all the very best as they embark on their studies and prepare to contribute their new skills and knowledge to a new industry.”
Mr Bennett said the Supporting Women Scholarship program would provide a total of 500 scholarships over four years.
Applications for the next round of scholarships will open later this year. For more information, visit www.skills.qld.gov.au/supportingwomen.