Our bi-annual Encouragement Grant (established in 2021) is primarily intended to offer support, encouragement and hope for the recipient to further their interests that are based upon a deep commitment and compassion for all of life and the natural world, through academic and creative endeavours, that align with the principles of our charity.
Our primary aim is to encourage the recipient to further develop their passion, commitment and capacity to achieve these values, and especially for those who may not otherwise be able to see these dreams realised due to their life circumstances.
We are delighted to be able to announce that our second Encouragement Scholarship of $5,000 for this year has been awarded to a Year 12 female student at Narooma High School.
Nominated by:
Mr. Joseph Harper – Deputy Principal Narooma High School &
Aunty Karen Ella-Bird – Senior Leader Community Engagement Narooma High School
This student has written a profile of her life to share with our readers and she holds the deep respect and support of the Executive Staff of Narooma High School for her amazing commitment and sense of purpose for her life.
Here are her words.
I grew up in Wagga Wagga, spending the first few years of my life growing up with my single dad. While living there, the situation was unstable and we were constantly moving, and when I was five, we moved to Dalmeny to live with my grandparents. During this time, my dad, three brothers, and I shared a single room until we found a place to rent. As I grew up, I learnt to look after my brothers – taking on a motherly role by supporting and looking after them. This was quite challenging as I was growing up myself, having to look after myself on top of that.
I’ve always felt a deep connection to the land, but it wasn’t until Year 7 that my passion for the environment truly blossomed as I learnt more about science. This has inspired me to pursue a career in environmental fields – focusing on conservation and sustainability.
I have faced hardships at home, having moved out in Year 10 when my relationship with my father fell through – and I was securing a roof over my head and was out of a home for weeks. I was in out-of-home care for almost 2 years before that relationship also fell through. Since then, I have been living back with my father, however the arrangements are still precarious.
Despite the hurdles faced, I have remained focused on my studies, with my interest in science unwavering. In Year 10, I was selected for an astrophysics immersion course at Swinburne University – my first experience with tertiary study, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I completed a research project on black holes and Hawking radiation, and upon returning to school, I had the opportunity to present my findings to the school and wider community at a formal assembly.
In Year 11, I delved into my love for science, conservation, and sustainability. I chose my careers carefully, giving me the opportunity to seek a pathway into environmental studies. Subjects aligning with this goal include Earth and Environmental Science, Biology, and Aboriginal Studies – having completed EES via distance as it wasn’t offered at my school. I have achieved highly in EES, having finished first in my cohort.
My cultural heritage has always been integral to my connection with the environment. I have been actively involved in this space at school, serving as a member of the Junior Aboriginal Consultative Group. In this role, I advocated for environmental issues within the school community, which helped me develop as a leader in environmental matters. Additionally, it has allowed me to build connects with my culture and community – who have steered me in the right direction towards my career/ life aspirations.
Next year, I hope to begin a Bachelor of Natural Environments and Conservation, followed by a Master of Protected Area Conservation at the University of Tasmania. This transition will undoubtedly bring challenges, but having overcome many obstacles before, I am confident I will meet them with resilience and determination.
We sincerely extend our warmest of congratulations to this very worthy recipient.
This kangaroo skin cloak was created by the recipient of our Encouragement Scholarship and it depicts the story of her life’s journey to this time.
A Further Appeal:
If you are feeling as inspired as we are by this young woman’s determination to achieve her life’s goals, we invite you to contribute a donation towards her studies in 2026. All donations are tax deductible and can be made to our charity’s Project Account – details below. Please send a notification via email to egstrust2@gmail.com so that our Treasurer can email your receipt to you.
Elm Grove Sanctuary Trust
BSB 032766 Account No. 139061
Reference – 2025 D. Scholarship