STOP PRESS: NATIONALS SCHOLARSHIP CLOSES 25 FEBRUARY

Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes encourages students throughout the Benalla Electorate who are undertaking their first year of tertiary study in 2010 to apply for The Nationals Scholarship for Young Leaders before applications close on 25 February.

“The Nationals Scholarship aims to make a positive contribution to helping country students overcome the economic barriers that prevent many students from achieving a tertiary qualification,” Dr Sykes said.

The Nationals Scholarship is open to students aged 16-25 who are attending their first year of tertiary study in 2010 and awards a share in $5000 for one or more successful applicants.

“The Nationals recognise the high costs young people face when they have to leave home to study in regional and metropolitan centres.

“Often without financial assistance attaining a tertiary qualification for many country students is not possible.”

Dr Sykes said his office has been contacted by many young people interested in applying for the scholarship from areas including Baddaginnie, Mansfield, Lima East, Benalla and Bright.

“I am encouraged by the amount of interest shown by country young people throughout the Benalla Electorate and the level of support shown by Year 12 co-ordinators in relation to the scholarship,” Dr Sykes said.

For more information contact Dr Sykes’ office on 5762 2100 or email bill.sykes@parliament.vic.gov.au  Application forms are available on The Nationals website at www.vic.nationals.org.au