By Jenni Kennedy

On August 1, the Sandhurst community came together in Shepparton to honour the exceptional achievements of 15 outstanding Year 10 and 11 students who were awarded the prestigious Bishop Joseph Grech Scholarship. This annual event is a highlight on the calendar of Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd (CES), and this year's ceremony was no exception. Two of the recipients were recognised in absentia, but their contributions to their colleges were no less appreciated.

The Bishop Joseph Grech Scholarship was established to recognise and support exceptional young people within the Sandhurst Secondary Schools who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their faith and to social justice. These students actively contribute to the vibrant life of their colleges by making a positive impact on their communities.

The scholarship holds a special significance as it is named in honour of Bishop Joseph Grech, the beloved sixth Bishop of Sandhurst. Fondly known as Bishop Joe, he was a true champion for young people and firmly believed in their ability to create a meaningful difference in the world and within the church. Tragically, Bishop Joe passed away in 2010, but his legacy lives on through the scholarship that bears his name and continues to inspire future generations.

Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd, Mr. Paul Desmond, addressed the gathering with heartfelt appreciation for encountering such exceptional individuals. He emphasised how parents and schools can be immensely proud of the young people in their midst who are actively working to build a better society.

“I love this event because it recognises and celebrates so much if what is good in our young women and men. Those who receive a Bishop Joseph Grech Scholarship do so because they are known in their school communities as individuals who are committed, creative, independent thinkers and doers,” said Paul.

“They are young people who stand for something; they think of others before themselves; they are ones who see a need and work to address it; they work for justice and improvement for all. These youngsters are the best of role models. I leave this event annually feeling sure that the future is in good hands.”

The scholarship not only recognises these remarkable students but also provides them with essential resources to further their personal and spiritual growth. Recipients are granted funds to attend leadership and faith development programs, allowing them to enrich their knowledge, skills, and understanding of the world, or students can use the scholarship funds to support programs that contribute to the greater good, fostering their sense of responsibility and encouraging them to create positive change in their communities.

The scholarship award luncheon was filled with joy and gratitude, as the achievements and potential of the young scholars were celebrated. It served as a poignant reminder of Bishop Joe's enduring legacy and his belief in the transformative power of young minds dedicated to making a difference.
Throughout the event, stories of these exceptional young individuals and their accomplishments were shared, reinforcing the significance of the scholarship's mission. Each recipient's dedication to their faith, their families and their unwavering commitment to social justice was evident in the projects they have undertaken and the positive impact they have had on their communities.

The Bishop Joseph Grech Scholarship Awards Luncheon not only acknowledges the outstanding young minds but also highlights the collective commitment of Sandhurst Secondary Schools and CES to foster a culture of excellence, compassion, and social responsibility among the student community. It showcases the power of education, faith, and leadership in nurturing future leaders who are passionate about creating a better world for all.

As we continue to celebrate the accomplishments of these exceptional young individuals, let us be reminded of the enduring legacy of Bishop Joseph Grech, who believed that the youth hold the potential to change the world for the better. The scholarship ensures that his vision lives on, empowering young people to become beacons of hope and agents of positive change in our society.