The scholarship of $6300 is being made available to Year 11 students across the Euroa electorate, and the funding will go towards a Kokoda Trek with ‘Adventure Kokoda’ in the July school holidays.
Ms Cleeland said she was proud to support an initiative providing local students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“Through this scholarship, two students will have the opportunity to trek the Kokoda Trail this year and walk in the footsteps of our local veterans,” she said.
“During the trek, the selected students will learn of the immense sacrifice made by our local war heroes, teaching them about the impact these people had towards protecting the lives and freedoms we relish today.”
Ms Cleeland says she could not wait to be involved with the initiative and encouraged eligible students to apply.
Students must write an essay and fill in a questionnaire about their interests, reasons for applying, and why they are deserving.
Applicants will then be shortlisted before they are interviewed by a panel of current or ex-servicemen or women who will decide on the winning applicants.
“The purpose of the scholarship is to encourage young people to research and understand the sacrifice by so many ordinary people, like residents from our local communities and Papua New Guinea, made in World War II to keep our nations free,” Ms Cleeland said.
“The Kokoda Scholarships are made possible thanks to the generosity of Kilmore Racing Club and local businesses — I’d like to thank them for their generous contribution and commitment to our nation’s history.”
All successful applicants will be escorted on the trail and their journey to and from the area.
Applications are due by Friday, March 8.
Information on applying has been provided to schools across the region, although anyone seeking more information can contact Ms Cleeland at Annabelle.cleeland@parliament.vic.gov.au, by calling 5762 1600, or by visiting her office at 25 Bridge St East, Benalla.
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