Greater Shepparton Foundation awards 2026 Lift Off Education Scholarships
By Aaron Cordy
EDUCATION is one of the pillars of the Greater Shepparton Foundation. Along with its partners, GSF has helped young locals pursue their educational dreams with the Lift Off Education Scholarship program.
Last Thursday, February 5, GSF awarded $84,000 to 14 successful applicants for the 2026 Lift Off Education Scholarship program at a ceremony at La Trobe University, Shepparton Campus.
The bright young 2026 cohort includes Aaron Schuren, Princess Arielle Santos, Chloe Hogg, Hunnardeep Kaur Sandhu, Jade Klein, Katya Eddy, Kiara Stephens, Masooma Shah, Matilda Altoft, Michael Wagner, Phillipa Turton, Ruby Sprunt, Sophie Kennedy and Tariro Kakono. The students completed their secondary schooling at various schools across the Goulburn Valley and will receive scholarships ranging from one to three years duration, and up to $10,000 in support.
“This year saw our highest number of applications in the scholarship’s 11-year history, reflecting both the growing need and aspirations of local students. The independent scholarship selection panel had a mammoth task, and we sincerely thank them for their expertise and time,” said Greater Shepparton Foundation Executive Officer Amanda McCulloch.
“We’re really proud of the recipients that have received scholarships today. Hopefully, the support will be able to provide them with that little lift off that they might need to be able to really thrive in life post-secondary school, and yes, just let them know that the community supports them and we’re really proud of them.”
Former Notre Dame student Aaron Schren, who is undertaking a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, received the La Trobe University and the Bella Ainsworth Perpetual Lift Off Scholarship.
“Huge thank you. It’ll definitely go to my studies and make my life easier and allow me to study well. It’ll allow me to become the best doctor I can be, as well as balance my social life and my sport, making me the best person I can possibly be,” said Aaron to the sponsors of his scholarships.
“I definitely hope to come back to the community, try and work in GV Health, but also support some of the students here. It can be difficult, but sometimes people don’t recognise how easy it is to actually get up there [achieve his marks]. But someone that’s balanced sport and social life and was able to get this degree, I hope this can inspire some younger people to go for it.”
