News

Unlock your future with grants

By Zoe McMaugh

Jun 30, 2026

Lauryn Bond and Ellen Draffin from the Deni Ute Muster with Sue Laing and Wayne Bradley from the Country Education Fund Edward River Region.

Applications for the next round of Country Education Fund Edward River Region grants open tomorrow, July 1.

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To support learning in the 2027 school year, the grants are available to 16-25 year-olds who live in or went to school in the Edward River footprint.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate a need for the funding, and commitment to achieving their goal.

CEFERR committee member Mel Broadbent said the number of grants provided will reflect financial support given to the charity organisation.

Funds to support local education are raised through committee events, corporate and personal donations, and the now annual fundraising through the Deni Ute Muster.

Last year’s backyard builds Tradie Challenge at the famed event raised more than $10,000.

Mrs Broadbent said a number of donations have been received in recent weeks because of the national end of financial year promotion, but said donations will be gratefully accepted at any time.

“A huge thank you to the local businesses who donated to our branch through the EOFY promotional period,” she said.

“We do not receive government funding; we rely on community donations. All funds go directly to supporting local youth with their post high school career goals.

“Study related expenses can cause a huge burden on our local youth.

“The funding we provide is often used to pay for textbooks, technology to support their study, accommodation or travel costs.

“Local businesses or community members can donate to our branch at any time via cef.org.au/donations/ (select the ‘A local CEF foundation’ option).”

Mrs Broadbent said the group opened applications earlier this year to give young people plenty of time to prepare before the October 31 closing date.

“Even if students are unsure what their study plans might look like in 2027, we would still encourage an application,” she said.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in the interview process later in the year.

For more information, go to https://cef.org.au/foundations/edward-river/.

Further details and support with your application is available by contacting Mrs Broadbent on 0419 204 295 or emailing cef.edwardriverregion@outlook.com.