SYKES: NATIONALS OFFER SUPPORT FOR YOUNG LEADERS

Young leaders of the future are being encouraged to apply for a $15,000 scholarship fund supported by grassroots members of The Nationals.

Announcing the scholarship today, Leader of The Nationals, Peter Ryan, said the party was committed to ensuring young people continued to reach their potential through higher education and training opportunities.

“Our branch members have supported the ‘Scholarship for Young Leaders’ which provides $15,000 to be shared among one or more successful applicants,” Mr Ryan said.

“The selection criteria includes the individual’s academic record; leadership qualities; and community involvement.”

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has encouraged students in the Benalla Electorate to apply for the scholarship fund.

“The scholarship is intended to support students who are furthering their studies in 2006 at a recognised Victorian tertiary institution,” Dr Sykes said.

“We are most interested in supporting students who are intending to further their career in rural and regional Victoria upon completion of their studies.”

Dr Sykes said it was the first time The Nationals had developed such a scholarship scheme and he congratulated party members for supporting the initiative.

“Our grassroots party members are very keen to help young people in the community achieve their career ambitions in rural and regional Victoria”.

Dr Sykes concluded, “We need our young leaders of the future to have the opportunity to live and work in regional Victoria and this is a practical step forward by The Nationals.”

Application forms can be downloaded at www.vic.nationals.org.au

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989