Flood-hit Southern Cross students receive new banking scholarship

First published by Southern Cross University

As the Northern Rivers marks the two-year anniversary of the devastating 2022 floods, the future of three of the region’s future entrepreneurs has been bolstered by a new scholarship.

Callum Wise, Joseph Dittmar and a third student have been announced as the inaugural recipients of the Northern Rivers Customer Owned Banking scholarship at an event at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus.

The trio each receives $15,000 over three-years to study the Bachelor of Business and Enterprise at Southern Cross University.

“I’m very grateful to be receiving this scholarship. I believe this scholarship will allow me to achieve a greater focus on my studies and ultimately help me reach greater success in the future,” said Callum Wise from the Tweed Shire.

Joseph Dittmar, also from the Tweed Shire, said: “I am extremely grateful to be the recipient of the Northern Rivers Customer Owned Banking scholarship. This support will allow me to continue pursuing my education and achieving my goals.”

The scholarship program is sponsored by a collection of Northern Rivers customer-owned banks given safe haven at the University’s Lismore campus after their other locations were decimated by the 2022 flood events. The banks’ relocation enabled the community to continue to access essential financial services.

The banks supporting the scholarship include Greater Bank, Summerland Bank, G&C Mutual Bank, BCU, Newcastle Permanent Building Society and Southern Cross Credit Union.

The annual scholarship aims to foster business acumen, innovative thinking and entrepreneurship in the Northern Rivers over the next six years as the region continues to recover. The Bachelor of Business and Enterprise develops skills in innovation and impact with a focus on sustainability. The degree offers specialisations in Accounting or Financial Services.

“Southern Cross University is deeply connected to the Northern Rivers. This scholarship is an indication of our commitment to partnership within the community and the growth of student opportunity in the area.”

Professor Tyrone Carlin

Vice-Chancellor and President, Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Tyrone Carlin, said the Northern Rivers Customer Owned Banking Scholarship highlights the power of collaboration in driving opportunity in the region.

“Southern Cross University is deeply connected to the Northern Rivers. This scholarship is an indication of our commitment to partnership within the community and the growth of student opportunity in the area,” Professor Carlin said.

“As we mark the two-year anniversary of the floods, it is an important time to reflect on how we can shape the future of our region through business and education.

“We know that scholarships have a life-changing power and this program will champion the education of students impacted by a natural disaster.”

Summerland Bank CEO, John Williams, said his organisation was delighted to partner with Southern Cross University and other customer-owned banks to offer this scholarship opportunity for business students who were impacted by the devastating floods.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting our local communities and investing in the future of our region,” Mr Williams said.

“We hope that this scholarship will help ease the financial burden for the recipients and enable them to pursue their academic goals and career aspirations.”