On 15th of June, 2022, University of South Australia, Mount Gambier Campus, held it's Scholarships, Awards and Grants Celebration evening. Students, along with their family and friends, gathered at the campus for a dinner presentation which recognised the achievements of the students and their success. District 9780 also had a hand in the night, with two awards 'Rotary District 9780 UniSA Grant' presented to two very deserving recipients.
Some background on the awards. Until 2017/18, the Grants were provided for students at Deakin University, Federation University and Australian Catholic University. It was then that Past District Governor, Ray Herbert of the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West, identified that UniSA Mount gambier Campus was not included. This was despite the Campus was within Rotary District 9780's zone. Ray then initiated an extension of the University Grants to include the Mount Gambier Campus. As a result of Ray's efforts, two awards have been presented to selected students since 2018.
To be eligible for the awards, students must apply and meet the following criteria:-
- Full-time enrolment at Mt Gambier Campus.
- Second year student (completed a minimum of 27 units)
- Submission of a personal written statement.
- Academic merit considered (Grade Point Average of 4.5 or above)
- Evidence of community service/engagement
- Preference may be given to applicants facing financial disadvantage or hardship.
- Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident of Australia.
This year the recipients of Rotary District 9780 UniSA Grant were Gemma Hunt (Education) and Ava Smith-Muhovics (Education). The Grants were presented by AG Elect, Darren Brown, Rotary Club of Casterton, with the MC of the night being AG Ian McKay, Rotary Club of Mount Gambier Lakes and also UniSA Regional Manager, Mount Gambier Campus. Other Rotarians present and representing District 9780 were President Patrick McEwen, Rotary Club of Mount Gambier and President Rodney Summers, Rotary Club of Mount Gambier Lakes.
It was a privilege to represent on the night and represent Rotary. Both Gemma and Ava were very grateful for Rotary's support and assisting them with their education.
