Parkes Shire Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM, Mikala McLean, and Council’s Manager Cultural Education & Library Services Kerryn Jones.
Growing up on a sheep, cattle and grain property near Tullamore, Mikala McLean has always loved animals and the business of running a farm.
As the recipient of this year’s Jack Scoble Educational Scholarship it is only fitting that she will use the funds to embark on a course she hopes will eventually benefit farmers across the Parkes Shire region.
Mikala graduated from Tullamore Central School last year and will leave the family farm next month to undertake a Bachelor of Animal Science at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. The scholarship will support her studies and accommodation.
“When I have completed my degree I hope to move back to regional and rural NSW to help farmers through easy and harder times with the changing environment,” Mikala said.
The Jack Scoble Educational Scholarship provides support for Parkes Shire high school graduates, undertaking their first year of full-time university studies in 2020.
Fifteen applications from across the Shire were received for the 2020 Jack Scoble Educational Scholarship.
Parkes Shire Council’s Manager Cultural Education & Library Services, Kerryn Jones said Mikala was chosen from the five shortlisted candidates.
“Mikala is a very worthy recipient and we are delighted to help kick-start what is sure to be a promising career.”