JCU Indigenous students receive boost from Arrow

The scholarships are part of 20 that Arrow Energy has awarded to Indigenous students at some of Queensland’s leading universities, as part of its Indigenous University Scholarships program.

JCU’s Professor Martin Nakata, Pro Vice Chancellor (Indigenous Education and Strategy) congratulated the students and welcomed Arrow Energy’s ongoing commitment.

“Scholarship support for Indigenous students plays a significant role in their progression and completion of degree programs. I congratulate Arrow Energy for their long-standing support to the students and the role they are playing in the preparation of our future professionals,” Professor Nakata said.

Arrow Energy Vice President External Relations & Tenure Management Leisa Elder said the scholarships, worth up to $10,000 a year for each student, have been set up to provide access to higher education for Traditional Owner groups across Queensland.

“We believe increasing participation in higher education is one of the key factors in closing the gap and these scholarships are part of that effort,” Ms Elder said.

Arrow has been administering scholarships for Indigenous students at universities around Queensland since launching the program in 2012.

“As students complete their studies, we have added new scholars to replace them – and these 20 students are the newest additions,” Ms Elder said.

“From medical science or engineering, to primary education or archaeology degrees, these students are determined to make a difference in their future careers and I’m proud we can support them along the way.”

The scholarships also include mentoring, tutoring and peer network groups to support the students.

James Cook University recipients

• Cherryl Luck – new recipient (pictured above)

Dharug-Wiradjuri woman Cherryl, from Townsville, is completing a Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous and Archaeology). Cherryl would like to build understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous culture through historical and archaeological evidence to give acceptance to traditions and their value in a globalised world.

• Maddison Sivyer – new recipient  (pictured above)

Maddison, originally from Woree, Cairns is studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science. Maddison would like to work in the mental health sector, focusing on removing mental health stigmas and reducing youth suicides.

• Paula Bobongie – new recipient (pictured above)

Paula, based in Mackay (studying externally), is undertaking a Bachelor of Education (Primary). After completing a community based teacher education program and a Diploma of Education, Paula continued onto tertiary studies. Paula works as a teacher aide and as a community education counsellor, and wants to be a positive role model to her four children and her students.

• Kirby Brennan – new recipient (pictured above)

Kirby Brennan of Townsville is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts Indigenous Australian Studies at JCU, and works as a mentor to other Indigenous students. Born in Mount Isa, she identifies as a Kalkadoon/ Waanyi woman (North West Queensland and Gulf of Carpentaria respectively). She and her family moved to Townsville when she was 12 years old, and completed all her senior schooling in Townsville.

• Cindy (Cindimyra) Holman – continuing recipient (pictured above)

Cindy, from Herberton, is of the Djirribul and Gugubadhun peoples. She is studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary). After working as a teacher aide for many years, Cindy is committed to achieving her career aspiration of becoming a qualified Primary School Teacher.

For more information about Arrow’s Indigenous scholarships.