QCoal Foundation

QCoal Foundation Scholarship Recipient Continues to Shine in Geology Studies and Community Engagement

Proserpine local and James Cook University (JCU) Geology student Noel Waipape continues to make strides in his academic journey and commitment to his community.

Awarded the QCoal Foundation Scholarship in 2022, Noel expressed his gratitude for the support he received to assist his studies.

Noel said he was ‘over the moon’ upon learning that he had been selected for the QCoal Foundation Scholarship. ‘The scholarship has helped me take my mind off other things, like out-of-pocket expenses such as accommodation costs and tuition fees.’

Currently advancing through his degree, Noel remains committed to his ambition to contribute to the mining industry upon graduation.

‘I’ve always been interested in working in the mining sector since I was young. I’d like to become either an exploration geologist or an earth scientist working in the clean-up effort after a mine’s been dug up, doing things like soil testing,’ Noel said.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Noel highlighted the importance of community engagement and giving back with the intention to return to his community once he graduates. Noel hopes to give back to the region, where he has been a part of his local cricket, rugby league, and rugby union clubs.

‘It’s very important to do that as an example to other young people who are going away to study at university,’ he said. ‘It’s good to show the community what you can contribute to your hometown and make everyone proud.’

CEO of QCoal Foundation, Sylvia Bhatia, commended Noel for his continued dedication to his studies and his community.

‘Noel exemplifies the spirit of the QCoal Foundation Scholarship. His academic achievements, coupled with his commitment to community, showcase the impact of investing in talented individuals from regional and remote communities.’

Since 2016, the QCoal Foundation Scholarship has been awarded to students studying a wide range of disciplines, including dentistry, veterinary science, engineering, and medicine. While degree disciplines have varied, all recipients share a genuine desire to use their skills to build resilient regional and remote communities after graduation.

Applications for the QCoal Foundation Scholarship close in January each year. You can learn more about the scholarship here and you can learn more about Noel’s experience as a recipient of the QCoal Foundation Scholarship in the video below: