Two newly qualified paramedics are taking their skills to regional communities thanks to support from The John Villiers Trust.
June 2022
The John Villiers Trust (JVT) and Central Queensland University (CQU) recently celebrated the graduation of two very special students who are dedicated to taking their skills back to rural, regional and remote communities.
Noah Goldsworthy and Raewyn Mann, who come from rural and regional Australian communities respectively, recently graduated with Distinctions from CQU’s Bachelor of Paramedic Sciences.
JVT provided financial support to both Noah and Raewyn throughout their studies, so they could build vital, life-saving skills they can take back to regional communities.
The aim was to increase the opportunities for education, development, employment, and health support in country communities. The two scholarships not only enabled two young people from regional areas to complete their degrees but will also result in boosting the number of paramedics in regional Australia.
CEO of The John Villiers Trust, Lea-Anne Bradley, said the program was a way to support communities and encourage young people in country areas to enrol in higher education, and take their skills and knowledge back to their local areas.
“At JVT we are passionate about encouraging young people to stay in – or return to – rural communities once they have finished their education,” Lea-Anne said.
“By supporting the education of young people from rural, regional and remote areas who want to stay living and working in those areas, we can help make a lasting difference not only to young people like Raewyn and Noah, but also to those country communities.
“We are so pleased to see our grant recipients achieve such excellent results and receive offers to work in regional areas.
“Congratulations to Raewyn and Noah for their academic achievements, and for being committed to using their new-found skills in country communities!”
Noah said JVT’s support helped him to gain practical learning experience in regional communities.
“Both of my placements were incredible learning opportunities and helped me to consolidate my knowledge and build confidence in my approach.
“JVT’s support helped me pay for travel expenses that arose due to these placements, as well as subject and amenities fees that would have otherwise accumulated into a HECS debt.
“University is certainly a difficult time for most students, and I feel very privileged to have had the support of JVT,” Noah said.
Raewyn also appreciated having the opportunity to focus on her studies, rather than taking on casual work to pay her bills, which would be especially difficult when completing rural placements for weeks at a time.
“My final year of university has come to an end and I couldn’t be prouder of what I achieved,” Raewyn said.
“With over 10 weeks of placement, it meant I couldn’t work. Life keeps going, bills add up and rent is always due. Thanks to JVT’s generosity I didn’t have any financial stress.”
Central Queensland University and The John Villiers Trust have been working together for over 10 years to support communities across regional Queensland.