Less than a third of Australians in country areas have a university or higher-level vocational qualification, compared to more than half in metropolitan areas. Thirty-one percent cite financial difficulties as the main reason for not following further education.
Since 2018, CEF Canowindra has been helping reduce these financial difficulties for over 50 local young people, giving out over $132,000 in scholarships to help them meet their educational goals.
These scholarships are soley financed through fundraising and donations. During the months of September and October, CEF Australia is matching funds raised dollar for dollar.
“It’s great knowing your contributions will be doubled,” says CEF Canowindra chairperson Barry Burns. “And knowing no matter their dreams, moving away for university or staying local for TAFE or an apprenticeship, your money will help young people in Canowindra who need it.”
To make a donation, simply go to www. cef.org.au, click on donate, click on the Canowindra branch and make a donation.
Another way to help is to head along to the CEF Canowindra Melbourne Cup fundraiser on Tuesday 7th November at “Riverside”. Tickets are $80, and this includes a bus to and from Canowindra, canapes and a drink on arrival, plus a two course lunch. Fashions on the field, best hat, sweeps, auctions and lots more. Support the CEF and have a great day out. Go to Facebook and search for Country Education of Canowindra Incorporated for all the information.
If you, or someone you know, could use a little help with educational expenses, go online to cef.org.au/apply-now/ and apply for a grant. Applications are open during the month of December.