Building resilient regional and remote Queensland communities.
Ashlee Browning, 2025 QCoal Foundation Scholarship Recipient. Credit James Cook University.
Our Stories
$30,000 Scholarship Up For Grabs For Regional Students
Now in its second decade, the scholarship provides one JCU undergraduate student with $10,000 per year for three years, helping ease the financial pressure of studying full-time and relocating to attend university.
2025 scholarship recipient and first-year Geology student Ashlee Browning, from Tolga on the Atherton Tablelands, said the award made all the difference in her decision to move to Townsville and study at JCU.
“This scholarship was a key factor in encouraging me to go to university in the first place, because originally I didn’t want to relocate,” Ms Browning said.
“It’s a big deal moving from a small town to a city, and the scholarship really took away a lot of the financial burden – and with that, a lot of the stress.
“Now it’s given me more time to settle in, make friends, and enjoy uni life, because I don’t have to work as much. It’s taken so much pressure off paying for accommodation and fees.”
QCoal Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Bhatia said the organisation is proud to provide the 11th annual QCoal Foundation Scholarship to assist a JCU student.
“We look forward to hearing from students who are passionate about regional and remote Queensland and who want to make a real contribution,” she said.
“Beyond levelling the playing field by providing support to students from outside major Queensland centres, we know the scholarship generates broader benefits for those communities where recipients are role models to others aspiring to attend university.
“Additionally, on their return to the regions, graduates contribute to community resilience, leadership and regional innovation.”
Ms Browning encouraged other students to apply and praised the QCoal Foundation for their ongoing support.
“Just go for it — I almost didn’t apply because I thought I wouldn’t get it,” she said.
“Be honest and be yourself in your application. They really do want to get to know you and support your goals.
“QCoal Foundation has been so supportive — it’s not just about the money. They’ve told me I can always reach out if I ever need help or advice.
Applications for the 2026 QCoal Foundation Scholarship are now open. To apply, visit the QCoal Foundation Scholarship page.
Applications close January 16, 2026.
