A NATIONAL program offering Australians inspiring opportunities to travel overseas and investigate a topic or issue they are passionate about will be outlined at an information session in Mount Gambier this month.
Churchill fellowships are open to anyone who would like to see what other countries are doing successfully in a similar field, to inspire new ideas and innovation that will benefit Australia.
About 100 Churchill fellowships are awarded annually, including some relating specifically to agriculture, health, education, the environment and the arts.
“While anyone can apply, this year we are making a concerted effort to encourage more applications from rural and regional Australians keen to explore issues relevant to their local community, industry or profession,” Churchill Trust chief executive Adam Davey said.
“To support this effort, we are running an expanded program of information sessions in sixteen regional centres, including Mount Gambier on February 19.”
No qualifications are required to apply and the subject of the proposed project is limitless.
However, it is important applicants demonstrate they have exhausted available options in Australia for learning more, the clear potential benefits to their sector or community and their willingness to share the knowledge gained.
“What is great about a Churchill fellowship is that it allows the applicant to create their own project so they can address what is most important and beneficial for their area of interest and that often aligns with issues of local, regional or national importance,” Mr Davey said.
“Returning fellows consistently report that it is invaluable to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and experiences and the relationships formed through this journey are often long lasting.
“Because the fellowships are held in such high regard around the world, travelling as a Churchill fellow also opens doors to access expertise that is typically not available.”
Including presentations from local fellows Chris McColl, Ian McKay and Janice Nitschke, the information session will be held at The Lakes Resort on Monday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
Entry is free but registration is essential via www.churchilltrust.com.au/events.
Applications close April 27 for travel between February 2019 and January 2020.
