Thirty students from the Geraldton Universities Centre (GUC) received a combined $83,500 in scholarships at the annual Hollomby Foundation Scholarship Presentation Event - a milestone celebration of the community-driven support that makes local university study possible across the Mid West.
The Hollomby Foundation Scholarship Program, named in honour of the late community champion Joe Hollomby, provides vital financial assistance to students undertaking university studies through the GUC. The program draws on the generosity of a diverse group of individuals, businesses, and organisations from across the region, all committed to helping local students access higher education without having to leave their community.
A Clock, a Tribute, and a Long-Standing Commitment
A special moment at this year's event was the gifting of a handcrafted clock made by Joe Hollomby's son, Les Hollomby. The clock was donated as a gesture of appreciation to long-term supporters of the Foundation.
This year, The Hon Melissa Price MP, Member for Durack, was recognised for her ongoing contribution to the Foundation. Since 2018, Ms Price has proudly supported GUC students through the Hon Melissa Price MP Member for Durack Equity Scholarship, providing financial assistance to students studying at the GUC. Ms Price has also been a strong advocate for the Federal Government's Regional University Study Hubs Program, which supports 56 regional university study hubs across Australia.
A Standout Story: From SIDE Student to University
Among this year's recipients, first year Bachelor of Education student Peta Humphreys stood out as a particularly inspiring example of determination. Peta received the Mid West Development Commission Scholarship, designed to support high-achieving Year 12 students to commence university studies at the GUC.
Peta achieved outstanding ATAR results while studying at Morawa District High School as a Schools of Isolated and Distance Education (SIDE) student - a testament to exceptional commitment in the face of real challenges.
New Donors Join the Foundation in 2026
The Foundation also welcomed new supporters this year, with Mitsui E&P and Beach Energy jointly funding three scholarships valued at $2,000 each, supporting students to study locally through the GUC.
"We continue to hear very compelling stories about the impact the current cost-of-living pressures are having on students. Many are struggling to balance work, full-time study and family commitments. Support from local donors and the wider community truly makes all the difference."
- Natalie Nelmes, GUC Director
The Hollomby Foundation continues to play a critical role in easing financial pressures for university students across the Mid West. Every scholarship awarded represents not just financial relief, but a community rallying behind the next generation of local graduates.
Click here to read the full press release
Photo Credits:
Hon Melissa Price MP and Hollomby Foundation Chair, Yvonne Messina (clock presentation)
Peta Humphreys and CEO Mid West Development Commission Nils
Group photo of scholarship winners
Press release and photo provided by Natalie Nelmes, Director, Geraldton Universities Centre; Edited by Laura Niebel, RUSH Network
