A scholarship fund that’s provided almost $300,000 to help build regional Queensland’s next-generation tertiary workforce has opened its door to applications for its 10th annual scholarship. 

Marking a decade since it first launched, the QCoal Foundation Scholarship provides a James Cook University (JCU) student with $10,000 each year for three years to offset the costs of studying.

Students studying Medicine, Dentistry, Geology, Speech Pathology, Veterinary Science, Engineering and other disciplines at JCU have all benefitted from the scholarship.

First year Speech Pathology student and 2024 QCoal Foundation Scholarship recipient Taylor Dockerty said she was grateful for the support as she adjusted to campus life at JCU in Townsville.

“It has really allowed me to strive to do my best in my studies, as I know the award funders are here to support me,” she said.

“One key aspect of being at JCU is having access to so many resources and being able to go on campus for study. I can use the library and online resources to broaden my knowledge and receive peer support from my fellow first year students, as well as others that are further along into their studies.”

Taylor said while moving away from her family in Emerald had been a challenge, the financial support provided by the scholarship put her parents’ minds at ease while she lived away.

“One tip I would give to students moving from remote communities for university is if you have the means, living on campus gives you the chance to meet new people and be surrounded by like-minded students.

“Receiving the award has also given me a boost in confidence and I will be encouraging everyone to put themselves forward for this scholarship.”

Taylor urged students considering applying for the scholarship to “sell yourself the best you can”.

“I would also highly recommend recording your speech. It may be a bit uncomfortable at first, but you can really show how passionate you are for your chosen course and show how helpful the scholarship would be in taking that next step into university life,” she said.

The 18-year-old hopes to move to a remote community after graduating to help families who need access to a speech pathologist.

“Ideally, I would like to move to a town that is central to lots of other small rural areas, so I can really help a lot of communities.

“I am very keen to give back, and that’s what I am most passionate about in this course.”

QCoal Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Bhatia said the organisation was proud to offer the scholarship, in partnership with JCU for the 10th consecutive year.

“From engaging with our recipients during their studies and beyond, we know our scholarships are changing the lives of regional students from all over Queensland.

“In particular, the scholarship can make a big difference for students who need to move away from home, often considerable distances, to study – especially in challenging economic times.

“We look forward to receiving applications from talented regional and remote Queensland students who are planning to study at JCU and are keen to return to those communities after graduation, and to awarding our 10th QCoal Foundation Scholarship.”

In addition to providing nine $30,000 scholarships, nine bursaries have also been awarded in recognition of the achievements of student applicants.

To apply for the 2025 QCoal Foundation Scholarship, head to www.jcu.edu.au/scholarships/search/qcoal-foundation-scholarship. Applications close January 10, 2025.