NSW event management scholarships assist those living in regional communities

NSW event management scholarships have been awarded with the intention of assisting in the upskilling and creation of more job opportunities for those living in regional communities across New South Wales.

Following the selection by a panel including representatives from the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) and the six Destination Networks, the recipients of 12 Diploma of Event Management scholarships have been announced as:

Aaron Bykerk – Albury
James Rodgers – Branxton
Joe Ann Williams – Nelson Bay
Jumana Schriefer – Coffee Camp
Kelly Brown – Burrill Lake
Kersti Martin – Thirlmere
Leesa Peck – Moonbi
Magdalena Mager – Casino
Miriam Hewson – Adelong
Sara Wightman – Queanbeyan
Shannan Botten – Broken Hill
Stevie Smith – Cobargo

NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres explained that the initiative is part of the NSW Government’s $6 million Regional Conferencing Strategy and Action Plan, which includes a partnership with MEA.

Commenting on her receipt of the Diploma of Event Management scholarship, Shannan Botten, who currently serves as Broken Hill Council's Events and Partnerships Officer, said she was elated with the announcement and thanked the NSW Government for supporting both her and Broken Hill.

Botten enthused “I can’t wait to start this fantastic opportunity. I am passionate about delivering events for Broken Hill and the surrounding community, and obtaining this higher qualification adds to what our city can offer.

Minister Ayres notes “the business events sector presents a major opportunity for the visitor economy of regional NSW, particularly as we steer our path to recovery.

“We know that the best way forward is to help to create more jobs and these scholarships will do exactly that - giving people the tools and extra support needed to kick-start their careers in the field of event management.

“I congratulate the 12 scholarship recipients who are already making valuable contributions to their local communities and wish them every success as they begin their diploma studies and continue their journeys in the events sector.”

MEA Chief Executive Robyn Johnson said she was looking forward to welcoming the third intake of regional students at a time when creating skills is key to enhancing career opportunities.

Johnson added “in the past year, we have seen a number of former scholarship students graduate with their MEA Diploma of Event Management with the skills gained from undertaking the course adding great value to their regions, which is a testament to this wonderful program.

Image of Shannan Botten, recipient of a Diploma of Event Management scholarship. Courtesy of Broken Hill City Council