Thirteen students share in $62,500 thanks to CEFN

Thirteen Narrabri Shire students have been supported in pursuing post-secondary school education opportunities thanks to the Country Education Foundation of the Namoi.

The organisation announced $62,500 in education grants at its annual presentation night.

This year’s recipients include Johnathan Charles (Certificate III Electrotechnology, TAFE), Charlie Cooke (Bachelor of Agribusiness, UNE), Pearl Fuller (Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management, CSU), Daniel Smith (Bachelor of Engineering Hons Civil, UNSW), Paige Morrison (Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws, Newcastle), Poppy Smith (Bachelor of Fashion Design, UTS), Mackenzie Jones (Bachelor of Animal Science, UNE), Eliza Dampney (Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions, UNSW), Caitlyn Coutts-Smith (Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management, CSU), and Millie Taylor (Bachelor of Exercise Science/Masters of Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology, UNSW).

The coveted William McIlrath Charitable Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Jesse Weekes (Bachelor of Agricultural Science, University of Sydney) while two William McIlrath Charitable Foundation Resilience Scholarships were awarded, one to Lacey Evans (Bachelor of Nursing, UNE) and one to Mia George (Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Psychological Sciences, University of Newcastle).

CEFN chair Cara Stoltenberg told the gathering at The Exchange that the organisation’s education grants are designed to empower students as they embark on their further education journey.

“Today we honour the dreams and aspirations of our young individuals who have shown remarkable resilience and determination,” Mrs Stoltenberg told the gathering.

“These grants are not just financial support, they are a bridge to opportunities, a stepping stone to a brighter future and a testament to our belief in the potential of every student regardless of their background.

“To our students, we recognise the challenges you face as you transition from the familiar comforts of home to the bustling life of a college student or full time employment, a lot of the time in bigger towns and cities.

“You are not alone in this journey.

“With the support of our community, we are here to guide you, uplift you and cheer you on as you pursue your academic goals.

“With the amazing support of our generous and supportive community, CEFN have been able to support 13 students in 2025 totalling grants of $62,500.

“To our supporters, thank you for your generosity and commitment to education. Your contributions make a profound difference in the lives of these students, helping to turn their dreams into reality.

“Together we are fostering a culture of learning and growth that will benefit not only the individuals we support, but our community at large.”

Mayor Darrell Tiemens praised the Country Education Foundation of the Namoi on the important role it plays in the community.

“Thank you for everything you do,” he said.