Media release
Abbott Foundation grant provides vital equipment for students
Monday, 24 August 2009
La Trobe University civil engineering students will gain valuable practical experience thanks to a generous donation from the Abbott Foundation (administered by Sandhurst Trustees) of $23,500.
The funds have been used to purchase a new set of surveying equipment that will enable the increasing numbers of civil engineering students at La Trobe University to gain hands-on expertise during their undergraduate studies.
Head of Department, Civil Engineering and Physical Sciences, Professor Joe Petrolito says using the equipment is an important aspect of the civil engineering course.
‘The study and practice of engineering surveying forms a substantial and important part of the civil engineering degree. Competency in theory and practice is equally important. We have an increasing number of students in the course and having another set of surveying equipment is very helpful,’ Professor Petrolito said.
‘As well as giving our students better access to the practical side of their studies, the new equipment also allows them to experience the latest technology that is available in the market place,’ Professor Petrolito said.
‘We are most grateful to the Abbott Foundation for their generous donation.’
The Frances and Harold Foundation was established as a charitable trust on the death of prominent Bendigo businessman, Harold Athelstane Abbott in 1979. Sandhurst Trustees Ltd is the trustee of the Trust and reviews all grant applications. The preference is to provide grants to organisations that conduct charitable purpose operations being the relief of poverty, advance of education, religion, health service, arts and culture or community development.
Media Inquiries:
Zerin Knight, La Trobe University, Media Liaison, Bendigo Campus
Phone 03 5444 7375
Mobile 0428 463 161
Email z.knight@latrobe.edu.au
