A legacy fund established to honour the lives of Ross and Andy Powell and support students in the Timboon and Port Campbell regions is ending on a high note with the distribution of nine new scholarships.
The Powell Legacy Fund (PLF) was established to recognise the work of Ross and Andy in volunteering, education and agriculture following their tragic deaths in a surf rescue accident.
As their sixth anniversary approaches, the fifth round of scholarships has been announced.
The 2025 scholarship recipients are Abbey Vines (Simpson), Charlotte Plozza (Scotts Creek), Max Smith (Port Campbell), Daniel Ryan (Timboon), Rob Matthews (Newfield), Tahlia Berry (Timboon), Olivia Whiting (Simpson), Molly Jones (Timboon) and Ebony Woods (Princetown).
Over the past five years, 24 scholarships have been awarded to local students who demonstrate the values of Ross and Andy in their community through leadership and volunteering. The scholarships extend over two-three years of post-secondary studies.
Convenor Chris Hibburt said in this last year of funding, the PLF had a record nine successful candidates, three funded through the DemoDAIRY Foundation, six from the Powell family and remaining funds from The Department of Education, Skills and Employment.
Following the tragedy, the Federal Government, through Wannon MP Dan Tehan, who at the time was Minister for Education, offered $100,000 towards the fund to recognise and support young people in the local community who were undertaking post-secondary education. Contributions were also made by the Powell family and DemoDAIRY Foundation, which has administered the PLF.
Mr Hibburt said it had been invaluable to have Port Campbell Surf Lifesaving Club, Timboon P-12 and DemoDAIRY Foundation supporting the PLF. “Although our funds are all accounted for, the legacy of Ross and Andy lives on in our community and we look forward to the continued growth and development of our young people as they enjoy the benefits, support and opportunities available to them,” Mr Hibburt said.
DemoDAIRY Foundation is keen to sponsor and support more people in the dairy farming industry. Further information can be found at https://www.demodairy.com.au/scholarships/ or from DDF secretary Ian Teese on 0427 358987 or itag@bigpond.com.