Country Education Foundation of Cootamundra

01/09/2026

Donations are doubled during September and October up to a cap of $7000! Donation information is in this link!

Cootamundra Country Education Foundation provides assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post high school aspirations.

30/08/2026

Zach Godber is studying a Certificate III in Electrotechnology.

“I am really enjoying my subjects, Electromagnetism and Terminate, because they are hands-on and help me understand how electrical systems work. I enjoy learning practical skills that I can use on the job.

I am most proud of how far I have come since starting my apprenticeship. I have gained a lot of knowledge, understanding and confidence. I have developed skills such as stripping and terminating cable, wiring circuits, reading electrical diagrams, using testing equipment and fault finding.

After I complete my apprenticeship, I hope to do FIFO for a couple of years to gain more experience and develop my skills. After that, I would like to come back and start my own electrical company. Eventually, I would also like to teach and pass on what I have learnt to other apprentices.

In my spare time, I like working on my ute, hanging out with my mates and helping my boss when I can. I enjoy being hands-on and learning new skills.

CEF has made buying the tools I need for my apprenticeship much easier and less stressful. Their support has made a big difference and helped me get the equipment I need without as much financial pressure. Everyone at CEF has been really supportive and lovely, and I don’t think I could have gotten as far as I have without their help.”

Well done, Zach, we enjoy hearing how much you are enjoying learning your trade and wish you all the best for your apprenticeship!

Applications for 2027 student grants are now open. https://cef.org.au/our-grants/

22/08/2026

Amarli Kelleher is studying a Bachelor of Nursing at CSU in Wagga Wagga.

“Nursing has always appealed to me because I have always felt a desire to care for others. My Nan was an incredible nurse and growing up hearing her stories of kindness, empathy and resilience involved in her work has left a lasting impact on me. I’ve really enjoyed the practical side of my degree, particularly the simulation classes where I get to put what I have learnt into practice and start developing skills I will eventually use as a registered nurse.

I’m really proud of how much I have grown since starting university. Going from finishing Year 12 to studying nursing has been a big change, and I’ve had to become much more organised, independent and confident in myself. One achievement I am particularly proud of is receiving an Executive Dean’s Award for Session 1 of my first year! This is an award that recognises a small percentage of students who achieve academic excellence across all of their subjects and receiving it so early in my university journey was really special to me and has given me confidence that all the long days, hard work and balancing university with everything else was paying off. I’m also proud of the clinical skills I have developed and the confidence I have gained with communicating with patients. It’s been really rewarding to look back at where I started and realise just how much I’ve learnt in such a short amount of time.

After graduating, I would love to work in a regional/rural hospital. Growing up in a small country town has shown me how important local healthcare services are and how much they mean to the people that rely on them. It has also shown me how important it is to have passionate and caring people working in our local communities, and I hope I can one day be one of those people. I would love the opportunity to give back to communities like the one that has supported me and be someone who can make a difference to patients and their families when they need it most. I’ve always had a passion for paediatrics, and that is something I could see myself pursuing. However, one of the things I love about nursing are that the opportunities are endless. I’ve also considered midwifery, emergency nursing, paediatric oncology and even contract nursing, where I could travel and experience different healthcare settings. I’m excited that I don’t have to have my entire career mapped out yet, there are so many different paths I could take. Ultimately, I just hope to find a career where I can care for people, continue learning and make a genuine difference in their lives.

When I’m not studying, sports take up a big part of my life. I love playing League Tag and Touch Football at club and representative levels. I love the competition but even more than that I love the friendships and memories that come from being a part of a team. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends and making the most of life outside of university.

CEF has been a huge help in making my transition into university easier. The financial support has helped with the costs associated with studying, like nursing equipment, fees, fuel and other resources I need for my degree. But I think what means the most is knowing that people from my own community are willing to invest in my future. It’s incredibly special to know that people who may not even know me personally have chosen to support my education and believe that I can achieve my goals. That support has taken away some of the financial pressure and allowed me to focus more on becoming the best nurse I can be. I’m incredibly grateful to CEF and everyone in the community who contributes to supporting students like me. Their support is not just helping me through university; they’re helping me build the future I’ve dreamed of. I hope that one day I can give back to my own community in the same way and support the next generation of country students to chase their goals.

12/08/2026

Ben Piffero is studying a Certificate III in Sports Turf Management at Wodonga TAFE and says that he really enjoys learning about preparing and maintaining sports surfaces.

“One of my biggest achievements so far has been learning how to use all the equipment at the local golf course and becoming a productive member of the team.
After I complete my apprenticeship, I would love to do some travelling in the future, and my dream is to work as part of the team at a major golf course. In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf, going to the gym, playing sport on weekends, and spending time with my family and friends.

I would like to sincerely thank CEF for supporting me through their funding. The assistance has helped cover the cost of PPE and equipment I have needed for TAFE. Having this support at the beginning of my career has been a huge help and has ensured I have the tools and equipment I need to succeed. I am very grateful for the opportunity and appreciate CEF's investment in my future.”

Well done, Ben, we certainly think you have a bright future and hope to see you at Augusta soon!

02/08/2026

Olivia Phillips is in her second year of Bachelor of Vision Science at the University of Canberra.
"I am learning basic optometry techniques and assessments by spending lots of time in the optometry lab. This semester I learned the principles behind different aspects of vision and pharmacology and spent some time in the science lab. I have enjoyed being able to apply my knowledge in the optometry lab and to link content between classes creating a broader understanding of optometry and the eyes.
I am proud of myself for mastering difficult techniques and being able to replicate them to pass my practical exam. Techniques to visualise the back of the eye or the retina were the most difficult to master and record appropriately. Other techniques involved touching a probe to the eye’s surface to test pressure or using light from different angles to detect structural features. I found these assessments fascinating and it was interesting to understand how each assessment works to provide an accurate picture of how the eye functions.
Once I complete my degree, I plan to complete my Master of Optometry to become an optometrist. Then I would love to move back to regional area.
I have a casual job to help cover living expenses. It gives me more freedom with my finances and offers connections with other uni students of various disciplines.
CEF has provided valuable assistance and support, covering much of the cost of my equipment needed this year as well as my parking permit. This has been extremely helpful as many of these large costs occur simultaneously."
We are so pleased to hear how much Olivia is enjoying learning about optometry and wish her all the best in her studies.

01/08/2026

Apply for funding for 2027 at https://cef.org.au/foundations/cootamundra/

26/07/2026

This year, Marine Franklin made the big step from CSU Wagga Wagga to University of Sydney where she is studying a Bachelor of Arts.

“So far, I have found this year exciting and motivating. My first semester has been one of my most enjoyed experiences in my journey with further education. I am so glad that I chose to transfer to the University of Sydney as I have already experienced so many new things, have learnt many skills and have made wonderful memories with friends.

The best thing has been my studies in my English class. We explored four classic novels, three classic poets and two classic plays from across history. I already feel as though my foundational knowledge in literature has been elevated. I have also enjoyed the social aspect of studying at the University of Sydney. The interaction with my teachers and peers during my classes have had a positive impact on my learning.

CEF funds significantly reduce my financial anxiety. It is a relief that I do not have to worry about finances which allows me to apply myself to my study. Apart from the funds, CEF have provided me with a large amount of support. I feel extensively assisted and confident in my studies. For this I am extremely appreciative to both the generous donors, and the supportive CEF team.”

We are so pleased that the move to Sydney has been a positive one for Marine, and that she is enjoying her course so much!

21/07/2026

Have you applied for a CEF local grant yet? Be like Pria and put in an application!

Applications are now open for 2027 grants so whether you're heading to university, TAFE or undertaking other training, a grant from the Country Education Foundation can help get you there!

A CEF grant not only gives you access to funds for educational expenses so you can focus on your studies or training, but you will also have the belief of your community to see it through.

Apply to your local foundation today: https://cef.org.au/our-grants/

19/07/2026

Oscar Philp is studying at TAFE to become a light vehicle mechanic and works as an apprentice at Smartfix Auto Electrics in Cootamundra.

“One of the things I enjoy most about my studies is the hands-on approach to learning. Whether I am learning on the job in the workplace or at TAFE, I can complete the classroom component and then immediately apply that knowledge in the workshop. I find this style of learning keeps me engaged and helps me understand how the skills and concepts can be applied in real-world situations.

There is a wide variety of work within the automotive industry and many different career pathways available in the future. I find the trade extremely interesting and enjoy learning new things every day, as every job is different and presents its own unique challenges. I am proud of the skills and knowledge I have gained so far and look forward to continuing to develop them throughout my career. I intend to remain in the automotive industry long-term, as I have a genuine passion for all aspects of mechanical and automotive work.

In my spare time, I enjoy applying the skills and knowledge I have learned through my studies and workplace training to my own projects. I particularly enjoy working on my personal vehicles and having the opportunity to develop my skills in my own environment.

The CEF has helped by reducing the financial burden associated with purchasing some of the more expensive tools and equipment required in the industry. It provides peace of mind when investing in these essential items and offers valuable support throughout my studies and apprenticeship.”

We are proud to support such a motivated and hardworking apprentice and wish Oscar all the best for his studies.