Three BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) / BHP funded scholars celebrated their successes at the recent CQ University graduation ceremony held in Mackay.
Bachelor of Nursing graduate Michelle ‘Shelly’ Erikson, Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) graduate Julieanne Bergmann and Bachelor of Psychological Science graduate Danica Crebbin joined hundreds of fellow graduates when they officially received their testamurs thanks to the support of BMA/BHP scholarships program.
“As a mature-aged student, I never thought I would have the opportunity to achieve a degree,” Shelly explained.
“Being able to wear my cap and gown and be a role model for my children is extremely special.”
A mum of four children with no family support in Mackay, Shelly said she very much relied on both her husband and the CQUniCares BMA Community Scholarship funding to help get her through her studies.
“The Scholarship was extremely beneficial for myself and my family as it helped financially with the costs involved, mainly with unpaid placements hours.
“It also ensured we could put food on the table while I couldn’t work – I am so very grateful for the support.”
Now employed as a Registered Nurse at Mackay Base Hospital, Shelly has secured a postgraduate position in the Child and Adolescent Unit, where she is completing a transition support program in acute paediatric nursing.
Fellow graduate and BHP Future of Work Program Scholarship recipient Julieanne Bergmann joined Shelly at the Mackay graduation ceremony where she was presented with her Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) degree. Julieanne said the scholarship aligned perfectly with her goals of remaining in the Mackay region and ultimately contributing to the mental health workforce in regional Queensland.
“The journey to becoming a Registered Psychologist requires significant financial investment, and I am very grateful for BHP’s support,” Julieanne said.
“It has taken me another step closer to achieving my goal.”
Julieanne is currently working at Queensland Psychology Group, supporting the clinical team and clients during intake and ongoing administration, and she plans to enrol in a Masters-level program soon.
She said CQU’s Honours program stood out because of its strong national reputation, online accessibility, cultural context and the focus on regional research topics.
“I valued sharing my graduation moment with my family and peers and thank my employers, the College of Psychology faculty and BHP for their support along the way.”
BMA has been in partnership with CQ University since 2013, delivering a mix of skills, education and research programs. It has provided more than 110 scholarships awarded to a range of disciplines, developed new and innovative courses, and undertaken research to prepare communities for jobs of the future.
BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said BMA partnered with CQU and provided scholarships to help build healthy, resilient and connected communities.
“The scholarships create opportunities for regional people to contribute to their home communities and address some of the skill shortages in Central Queensland.
“These graduates are examples of how scholarship support and quality education can transform lives and strengthen regional communities.”
Header Image Caption: L-R: Linda Murry (General Manager BMA Hay Point Coal Terminal), Michelle Erickson, Julianne Bergman and Dan Grech (Manager Maintenance BMA Hay Point Coal Terminal).
