The Circular Head community came together this morning to celebrate learning, opportunity and achievement at the annual Celebration of Education event.
The event recognised the important role education plays across all stages of life and included the presentation of three valued scholarships, made possible through the strong support of local organisations and Council.
Scholarships were awarded to:
Abigail Croft, recipient of the Soroptimists International of Circular Head Scholarship.
Nevaeh Tuxworth, recipient of the Rotary Club of Smithton Bursary.
Gabrielle Radford-Bryan, recipient of the Circular Head Council Mayor’s Education Fund Bursary.
Established in 2002, the Mayor’s Education Fund supports Circular Head residents to engage in further study by helping to offset education-related costs. One $5,000 bursary is awarded each year to applicants who demonstrate that access to further education would be difficult without financial support.
Mayor Gerard Blizzard said “this year we received a record number of applications, which made the panel’s decision particularly challenging. It is encouraging to see so many people in our community taking up opportunities to continue their education.”
The Mayor’s Education Fund is a long-standing example of Council’s commitment to the goals of Circular Head Vision 2050. By supporting residents to access further education when financial barriers may otherwise prevent it, the Fund helps build a stronger, more inclusive community and a skilled local workforce. The increasing number of applications reflects a growing demand for education and training opportunities and highlights the importance of continued investment in learning.
The event also heard from Amber Barker, recipient of the 2025 Mayor’s Education Fund bursary, who shared her experience of her first year at university and the difference the scholarship made in supporting her studies. It was heart-warming to hear Amber reflect that, during challenging times, she drew strength from knowing her community believed in her through this scholarship.
Guests were introduced to this year’s Mayor’s Education Fund recipient, Gabrielle ‘Gabbi’ Radford-Bryan, who is pursuing her long-held dream of becoming a primary school teacher. Inspired by her own teachers, Gabbi hopes to create a safe, welcoming learning environment where children can see the value of education and the possibilities it can open.
Through our partnership with CHETCC, Council works alongside educators, community services, volunteers and organisations to collaborate, advocate and support learning opportunities across the region - from early childhood programs to library initiatives, trade training centres and the Study Centre.
Council congratulates all scholarship recipients and thanks the Soroptimists International of Circular Head, the Rotary Club of Smithton, guest speakers and everyone who contributed to making the Celebration of Education a success.