• Two Charles Sturt University students have received scholarships through the Albury-Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service
• The scholarships are worth $10,000 each
• First Nations students studying health-related degrees in Albury-Wodonga are eligible for the annual scholarship

Two First Nations students at Charles Sturt University have been awarded a scholarship to kickstart their healthcare studies.

The Albury-Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service (AWAHS) awarded the two scholarships, each worth $10,000, to Charles Sturt Bachelor of Nursing students Ms Lucy Armer and Ms Dakota Pyle.

The scholarships are awarded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students commencing studies in health and rehabilitation, speech pathology, nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy or podiatric medicine attending Charles Sturt in Albury-Wodonga.

Charles Sturt Development Officer (Albury-Wodonga) Mr Craig Trethowen said it was wonderful to see support for students to take the first steps toward their dream careers.

“This scholarship takes away a huge financial stress from students in order to allow them to really focus on their studies and succeed at university,” he said.

“Ms Armer and Ms Pyle are incredibly deserving of this, and the funding will not only benefit them in their studies, but the whole region once they graduate as nurses to look after our community in a healthcare setting.”

Ms Armer (pictured left) is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing and said the financial support would allow her to better prioritise her career.

“I am so immensely grateful for receiving this scholarship as it will allow me to focus on my studies instead of my financial needs to pursue my career in nursing,” she said.

This year marks a significant milestone for AWAHS as it proudly awards not one, but two scholarships. AWAHS Chair Craig Taylor said the decision underscores their unwavering dedication to closing the gap in First Nations health within the region, emphasising their commitment to supporting the health of the local Aboriginal community.

“Our mission at AWAHS is clear: to enhance health outcomes for the local Aboriginal community through culturally appropriate, reliable, and professional services,” Mr Taylor said.

“By providing these scholarships, we are investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals who will lead the charge in bridging this crucial gap.

“It's not just about providing healthcare, it's about nurturing a legacy of change and improving the overall quality of life for our community members. This year, we take a bold step forward by offering two scholarships, signalling our firm belief in the urgency of this mission."

The students will formally receive their scholarships at a ceremony on Tuesday 14 May at Charles Sturt in Albury-Wodonga.

The scholarships, facilitated through the Charles Sturt University Foundation since 2013, will be paid over three years.

More information on the range of scholarships offered at Charles Sturt, including opening and closing dates and evaluation criteria, can be found on the website.

If you or someone you know would like to support a Charles Sturt student, contact the Charles Sturt Advancement office.

ENDS