Illie Hewitt, Amy Hart, Lauren Davis and Vince Umbers have each received $2000 towards their expenses as they start full time study.

Illie is enrolled in Sydney University to study a Bachelor of Medical Sciences.

Amy Hart is already in Canberra, ready to commence a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation. 

Lauren Davis has started a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) / Bachelor of International Security Studies at Australian National University. 

Vince Umbers is heading to Sydney University to study a Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Arts.

Parkes Shire councillors Mick Greenwood and Barbara Newton were part of the panel that awarded this year’s scholarships to four of 18 nominees.

“The quality of the young people who applied was exceptional,” Cr Greenwood said.

“I could have given the scholarship to all of them. 

Cr Newton agreed that the task of selecting recipients had been hard, but very enjoyable.

Mayor Ken Keith said council was pleased to support the scholarship program, encouraging young people to take up tertiary education opportunities. 

“We hope these students will return to Parkes and take up positions with the many employers in our shire,” he said.

Since 2006 the scholarship program has provided $54,000 assistance to 26 locals heading to university.

The 2014 scholarship recipients have outlined in letters to council how they used the scholarships to buy laptops, textbooks, software and pay part of their university fees. 

One of the 2014 recipients, teaching student Brenton Hawken, wrote to council last November outlining what the grant had meant to him.

“The Jack Scoble scholarship gave me peace of mind and security during my transition to university,” he said. 

Sam Noakes said the scholarship enabled him to be comfortable and well-equipped, ready to start a new life.

The next round of the scholarship program will be announced later this year.

Students interested in more information can contact Parkes Shire Council on 6861 2333 or go to parkes.nsw.gov.au