General News
7 April, 2026
Students reap benefits from scholarships
TWO Far North Queensland university students have each been awarded $5,000 in the first round of an industry-funded scholarship program.
Tablelands & Cassowary Coast University Centres (TCUC), operated by the Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG), has announced the winners of the first round of its CGC Scholarships Program which provides assistance to students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their studies while balancing work, family and other life commitments.
The program is funded by engineering firm Civil Geotechnical Consultants (CGC.
Aysha Coker, a student at Tablelands University Centre (TUC) in Atherton, and Jenna Snow, a student at Cassowary Coast University Centre (CCUC) in Innisfail, have been named the first scholarship recipients.
The scholarship program was intentionally opened to students across all fields of study, reflecting CGC’s broader commitment to strengthening regional communities.
CGC Director Ian Thompson said the winners reflected the spirit of the program.
“CGC is committed to the communities where we live and work, because we believe strong communities are built from within,” he said.
“Aysha and Jenna are doing remarkable things under challenging circumstances, and they represent the backbone of regional Far North Queensland.
“We couldn’t be prouder to support them.”
Aysha is a proud Aboriginal woman, single mother and Bachelor of Nursing Science student at James Cook University, studying through the Tablelands University Centre.
She works as a carer in a local aged care facility alongside her full-time studies – experience she brings directly into her nursing training.
After taking time away from study to respond to family priorities, she returned with renewed motivation to pursue her goals.
Aysha hopes to work in rural and regional healthcare after graduating, helping address workforce shortages in communities like her own and serving as a role model for Aboriginal and mature-age students.
“This scholarship will go straight towards my travel costs - my weekly trips to campus and my placement blocks,” she said.
“For a regional student, those expenses add up, and this support means I can focus on my studies and build the nursing career I’ve been working so hard for.”
CGC’s investment represents the company’s first major education partnership in the region, contributing $20,000 in scholarships across two rounds, alongside additional sponsorship. VPG chief executive officer Maryanne Tranter welcomed the announcement.
“The calibre of applications we received in round one was outstanding. These students are already making meaningful contributions to their families and communities through their work, study and leadership,” she said.
“Their commitment to learning while balancing many responsibilities speaks to the talent, determination and aspiration that exists across our region.
“CGC’s willingness to back students across all disciplines demonstrates a genuine commitment to local potential, and we’re deeply grateful for their support.”
The second round of the CGC Scholarships Program will open 1 May, with two further $5,000 scholarships available - one for a student at Tablelands University Centre and one at Cassowary Coast University Centre.
Scholarships are open to students registered with TCUC who live in the Tablelands, Mareeba or Cassowary Coast regions and are enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in 2026.
Students not yet registered with TCUC are encouraged to register to access free local study space and support and become eligible to apply.
To register, go to www.tuc.edu.au/register.
