A TOTAL of $34,000 is now available to help Port Stephens students starting TAFE or university in 2021 as part of the Port Stephens Mayoral Academic Scholarships.

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Now in its twelfth year, local students can apply for a $2000 scholarship to help cover the cost of their studies thanks to the joint initiative by Port Stephens Council and local businesses.

This year, 14 local businesses have collectively contributed $34,000 to the scholarship pool creating 17 scholarships.

This year’s generous sponsors include Ampcontrol, Destination Port Stephens, Hunter Land, Hunter Readymixed Concrete, McDonald Jones Homes, MOJO Homes, Newcastle Airport, Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, Salamander Bay Recycling (2), Soldiers Point Bowling Club, SUEZ Resource Recovery Centre, The Wests Group (2), Tomago Aluminium and Weathertex (2).

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says the program helps local students on their way to further education.

“For over a decade, Port Stephens Council has been working with local businesses to help local students who are just starting out on their academic journey.

“Whether it’s paying for textbooks, buying a laptop or helping with living costs — we know these scholarships go a long way to helping students pursue their passions and achieve their goals through further education.

“If you’re a resident of Port Stephens and you’re thinking of starting university or TAFE next year, I’d encourage you to apply for a scholarship and give yourself a head start in your academic career,” he said.

Mayor Palmer recognised the generosity of local businesses in supporting this important initiative.

“In the past 11 years, we’ve helped almost 130 students reach their academic goals with scholarships totalling over $250,000.

“That’s a quarter of a million dollars donated by local businesses to help our future leaders — an amazing achievement!

“Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, our local businesses have remained committed to supporting and investing in our future leaders because they know its importance in the long term.

“I want to thank all of our amazing business sponsors — many of which have been with us since the start — for recognising the value of investing in this program,” he said.

The 2021 Mayoral Academic Scholarships are open from now until Friday 15 January 2021.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/live/community/grants-and-funding/mayoral-academic-scholarships.