Country Education Foundation CEO, Wendy Mason with Nicola Searle who is the Director, People, Newmont Cadia
Students from Orange, Blayney and Canowindra seeking to pursue university or vocational education and training have extra financial backing after Newmont Cadia have pledged $60,000 in scholarships through the Country Education Foundation (CEF).
The partnership will offer two Newmont Cadia-CEF Scholarships worth $10,000 each, per year, for up to 3 years, commencing from the 2027 academic year.
Both scholarships are open to students aged 16-25 who are from or went to school in Orange, Blayney or Canowindra, with one scholarship preferencing First Nations students.
Students must first apply to their relevant, CEF local foundation – either CEF Orange and District or CEF Canowindra, to receive a local grant, to then become eligible for the Newmont Cadia-CEF Scholarships.
Country Education Foundation CEO Ms Wendy Mason said CEF was delighted to partner with Newmont Cadia, with both organisations sharing a belief that rural and regional students should have the opportunity to pursue their preferred career pathways, regardless of their postcode.
“For more than two decades, Cadia has made a significant impact on the social and economic wellbeing of communities across the Central West,” Ms Mason said.
“As one of Australia’s largest gold and copper mining operations, it has made a lasting contribution through support for local jobs, businesses, schools, health services, community organisations, and regional infrastructure.
“Importantly, this commitment extends to education, with Newmont Cadia supporting a range of programs that help local students to achieve their goals and realise their potential.
Ms Mason noted the partnership would support investment in regional skills development likely filling vital skills gaps.
“We know that around 97% of CEF-supported students are considering returning to rural and regional Australia after graduating to utilise their skills in the communities that shaped them,” Ms Mason said.
Newmont Cadia’s Director, People, Nicola Searle said Newmont is committed to supporting opportunities that help local young people achieve their education and career aspirations.
“We know there is incredible talent and potential across our region, and we’re proud to support initiatives that help remove barriers to further education and training.
“Through our partnership with the Country Education Foundation, Newmont is helping students access opportunities that can open doors for their future while strengthening the communities we all call home.
“By investing in education today, we’re supporting the next generation of leaders, professionals and skilled workers who will contribute to the future success of the region.”
For students to be eligible for the Newmont Cadia-CEF Scholarships they must first receive a local grant through either the CEF Orange and District or CEF Canowindra local foundations.
Local grants close on 31 October. Local students can visit the CEF Canowindra page for further information or to submit their application for a local foundation grant at: www.cef.org.au/foundations/canowindra