More than 350 CQUniversity students recognised through scholarships and prizes

By Katelyn Dunn

More than 350 CQUniversity students have been recognised through donor-funded scholarships and academic prizes, with celebrations held in Rockhampton, Mackay and Bundaberg to honour their achievements and acknowledge the generous supporters who help make their success possible.

This year, CQUniversity awarded almost 200 donor-funded scholarships and more than 150 academic prizes, recognising outstanding academic performance in 2025 and supporting students to pursue their educational and career aspirations.

Made possible through the generosity of organisations, businesses, community groups, alumni and individual donors, the awards highlight the significant impact of philanthropy and community partnerships in helping students overcome barriers to higher education while rewarding academic excellence.

CQUniversity Deputy Director, Philanthropy and Social Impact François Gallais said the scholarships and prizes reflected the power of communities investing in the next generation.

"Every scholarship and academic prize represents an investment in a student's future," Mr Gallais said.

"Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, students are able to focus on their studies, pursue opportunities they may not otherwise have access to, and achieve their full potential.

"These awards are about more than financial support or academic recognition. They are about creating opportunities, building confidence and encouraging students to continue striving for excellence."

The achievements of recipients were celebrated at presentation events held across CQUniversity's regional footprint in Rockhampton, Mackay and Bundaberg. The events brought together students, donors, industry representatives, community supporters and University staff to recognise academic achievement and celebrate the transformative impact of scholarships and prizes.

Among this year's awards were several prizes that highlight the enduring relationships between donors and the University. These included the Evans Edwards Prize, which celebrated 40 years of recognising outstanding accounting students, and the inaugural Capricorn Conservation Council (CCC) Judith Wake Memorial Prize, established to honour the late Dr Judith Wake, a respected conservationist, scientist, educator, CQUniversity Adjunct Researcher and founding member of the Capricorn Conservation Council.

Mr Gallais said academic prizes and donor-funded scholarships both played an important role in supporting student success.

"Academic prizes celebrate the dedication and hard work students have demonstrated throughout their studies, while scholarships can provide practical assistance that allows students to remain focused on achieving their goals," he said.

"Together, they help create pathways to success and demonstrate what can be achieved when industry, community and higher education work together."

Many scholarship recipients have shared stories of how donor support has helped them overcome financial challenges, balance competing commitments and pursue careers that will make a difference in their communities.

CQUniversity extends its sincere thanks to the organisations, businesses, community groups, alumni and individuals whose ongoing support continues to transform lives through education.

Discover the full list of recipients of CQUniversity's 2025 academic prizes is available on the CQUniCares Academic Prizes webpage.

To find out how you or your organisation may be able to support a prize or scholarship for a student, please reach out to CQU Philanthropy Team at [email protected].