The Mildura RSL scholarship commenced in 2009 and is awarded to La Trobe University students, studying at the local Mildura Campus, who are descendents of a Veteran (child or grandchild) of the Australian Armed Services. The intiative commenced as the Mildura RSL was keen to demonstrate to the community its support for young people and people returning to education.
Michelle Watson and Tayla Lloyd were the recipients of the scholarship in 2018. Michelle, a single mum of two school aged boys, says the scholarship helped her greatly with her studies.
“I returned to study to improve our family situation and be a positive role model to my boys.
“I am honoured to be a recipient of the RSL scholarship. Applying for the scholarship forced me to look deeper into my family's history and service to this country. I am very proud of my family and the sacrifices that they have made in bettering this country,” Michelle says.
Tayla Lloyd hopes to stay in Mildura and gain local employment in an Accounting firm once she graduates.
“I wanted to study at La Trobe’s Mildura campus due to the fantastic educational facilities it offered, the course I was interested in and it eliminated the cost and burden associated with relocating.
“I am tremendously grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship. It provides me with valuable financial assistance when it comes to purchasing costly textbooks, as well as allowing me to start paying off my HECS debt. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies and relieve the financial burden of the costs associated with University,” Tayla says.
Dr Deb Neal, Head of Campus, was part of the initial discussions to commence the scholarship and has seen it benefit many locals students.
“Ten year is a wonderful commitment from our local RSL branch. It demonstrates to the community that the Mildura RSL recognises its role in the education of local people. Over the years I’ve seen many students receive the scholarship and they always take great pride in their family’s association with the Australian Armed Services,” Dr Neal says.
The Mildura Returned Services League Scholarship is now open for applciations and students can apply via the La Trobe scholarships website.
