Rotary backs the next generation of local professionals by awarding three scholarships

Three local students pursuing careers in engineering, social work and medicine have received a helping hand with their studies, with the benefits of that support expected to flow back into the Tomaree community.

The Rotary Club of Nelson Bay has awarded its 2026 Centenary Scholarships to Salamander Bay’s Billy Diemar and local women Olivia Smith and Zoe Beks.

Established in 2005, the scholarship provides financial assistance to local students undertaking certificate, diploma, degree or postgraduate studies that will enhance their chosen vocation.

Importantly, applicants must also demonstrate how the outcomes of their studies could benefit the Tomaree community.

Billy, who received his scholarship in May, is studying a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Newcastle and will use the funding towards an Honours project.

Olivia is already working in disability support and other community-based support roles while studying a Bachelor of Social Work through Southern Cross University.

Zoe has embarked on a significant five-year study journey at the University of Newcastle towards becoming a doctor.

For each recipient, the scholarship provides practical financial support at a time when the costs associated with tertiary education can place additional pressure on students.

For the wider community, it represents an investment in local people developing skills in fields that have the potential to make a tangible difference to the region.

The scholarship itself grew from a worldwide Rotary initiative marking the organisation’s centenary in 2005, when clubs were encouraged to establish projects of “ongoing significance” within their communities.

Nelson Bay Rotary responded by creating a scholarship specifically for local students, a program that has now continued for 21 years.

The club said the scholarship had demonstrated both its “ongoing significance” and its ability to create a “lasting impact” for recipients and the Tomaree community.

That philosophy aligns with Rotary International’s current call for clubs to pursue projects that “Create Lasting Impact”.

More than two decades after the first scholarship was established, supporting local students to build careers, expertise and knowledge remains a simple way of investing not only in individuals, but in the future strength of the community they call home.

By Jacie WHITFIELD