Toc student awarded grant

She is in her second year of a Bachelor of Development Studies and Bachelor of Social Science at The University of Newcastle.

During the celebratory dinner in Sydney, where Alexandra received her scholarship, SunRice Group chairman Laurie Arthur described Alexandra as an “incredibly deserving recipient” in the 11th year of the award.

“Alexandra demonstrates a deep commitment to both the rice industry, her studies and her communities, through the pathways she has chosen,” he siad.

“She is passionate about rural development and sustainability in agriculture, particularly in how industries impact rural communities and the environment.

“The scholarship will enable Alexandra to focus on addressing the social dimensions of agriculture through improving education, communication, and knowledge-sharing within the rice industry and broader farming communities.

“Alexandra is confident the scholarship will help with both her personal development and career journey.”

Mr Arthur said the Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship was established to provide recipients with financial support and practical industry experience to help them achieve their career goals.

“At the SunRice Group, we are incredibly proud to honour Jan’s dedication by investing in the future of the industry through this scholarship.

“Jan had a true passion for the rice industry and was committed to ensuring young people received the proper training and education to contribute meaningfully to the sector and their future as women in the industry.

“Supporting 15 young women so far in advancing their studies is the perfect way to recognise her legacy and we look forward to continuing this program.”

On receiving the Award, Alexandra expressed her sincere gratitude for being chosen as the recipient of the Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship along with acknowledging Jan's passion and dedication to the rice industry while expressing her desire to embody the values Jan upheld.

“I am incredibly honoured to be part of Jan Cathcart’s legacy, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a network that values sustainability, collaboration and education,” she said.

“My goal is to use this experience to make a meaningful contribution to the communities and industries that have shaped me.”

The scholarship, valued at $10,000 per year for up to three years of tertiary study, is aimed at supporting women pursuing careers in agriculture.

To date, it has been awarded to 14 other recipients:

• 2024 - Ava Christie from Albury and Hope Fitzpatrick from Moulamein.

• 2023 - Tiarna Burke from Coree and Lily Delves from Hanwood.

• 2022 - Rebecca Groat from Myall Park.

• 2021 - Charlie Reilly from Leeton.

• 2020 - Alexandra Morona from Deniliquin.

• 2019 - Emily Fasham from Wakool.

• 2018 - Annabel Arnold from Berrigan.

• 2017 - Sarah Cudmore from Benerembah.

• 2016 - Millie Mertz from Moulamein and Elise Wilson from Coleambally.

• 2015 - Samantha Glenn from Moulamein and Zoe Reynoldson from Berrigan.

Since its inception, the SunRice Group has awarded more than $300,000 through the Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship.