On Wednesday 11 August, RFDS Victoria proudly awarded its annual Give Them Wings scholarships to six impressive students from across Victoria.
The winners this year were:
- Samantha Miller, studying a Bachelor of Nursing at La Trobe University Mildura
- Scott Li, studying a Bachelor of Nursing at La Trobe University Mildura
- Jacquelyn Stalling, studying a Bachelor of Nursing at La Trobe University Mildura
- Jake Bennett, studying a Biomedical degree at La Trobe University Bendigo and the University of Melbourne (Shepparton)
- Apryl Start, studying a Bachelor of Paramedic Practice with Honours at La Trobe University Bendigo
- Lily Wynn, studying a Bachelor of OT at La Trobe University Bendigo
The Give Them Wings scholarships, which celebrated their tenth year this year, recognise the added expenses that students from remote locations often face when studying, and provide financial assistance to help these students complete their course. This year, each scholarship was valued at $4,000, and includes the opportunity for students to experience a day in the life of a Flying Doctor, either on the road or in the air.
RFDS Victoria Chief Executive, Scott Chapman, says the Flying Doctor is proud to support young Victorians who aspire to provide health care in rural areas. “These scholarships acknowledge the additional costs rural and regional university students face when undertaking their studies,” says Mr Chapman. “By supporting health care students in the early stages of their careers, they are more likely to complete their studies and return to their local communities to work.
“The bush needs more health workers of all kinds, and these scholarships are another way we can work to improve health outcomes in Victoria,” he says.
In 2021, the Give Them Wings scholarships were made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Bayside Auxiliary and Cooper Energy.
