‘At its core, Burgmann is an unconditionally supportive place to grow—not just as students but as people. I think that’s what makes this place so special. It is a place that nurtures, inspires, and helps you thrive. And the impact of this is clear in the achievements of its alumni. Rhodes Scholars, internationally recognised leaders, a Prime Minister, and even a Midnight Oil frontman, all contributing to Australia’s leadership and culture.’
Charley Ellwood, 2023 C.A.S. Hawker Scholar and 2025 BRA President
I arrived in Canberra in February last year, having spent most of my childhood growing up on the Gold Coast in Queensland.
Needless to say, the decision to move and my first few months in Canberra were hallmarked by one thing—change.
Change, not just in my postal address or my electoral enrolment, but in the people I was surrounded by, a change in where my mind was most focused, and a change in the environment that would continue to shape who I was as a young person. And while I like to believe at times that as an optimistic and naïve 19 year old, I know everything, the truth is, I don’t. I am far from it. That’s precisely why an environment like Burgmann is such a valuable asset—not only for academic growth but also for personal development.
Burgmann has not only given me a place to focus on my studies, but has helped me navigate life’s challenges. The friendships I’ve made here have been some of the most meaningful relationships in my life. And when I had a family medical emergency happen earlier this year, Burgmann was there to provide support when and wherever they could.
At its core, Burgmann is an unconditionally supportive place to grow—not just as students but as people. I think that’s what makes this place so special. It is a place that nurtures, inspires, and helps you thrive. And the impact of this is clear in the achievements of its alumni. Rhodes Scholars, internationally recognised leaders, a Prime Minister, and even a Midnight Oil frontman, all contributing to Australia’s leadership and culture.
But what really resonates with me is that the opportunity to live and learn in such an incredible environment is not something that should be limited to a select few. The experience of being a resident at Burgmann—of being part of a supportive, dynamic, and challenging community—is something I want more people to have. But the reality is that for many aspiring university students, this opportunity feels out of reach.
That’s where scholarships and bursaries come in. They play a critical role in ensuring that financial barriers do not limit the future leaders, thinkers, and changemakers of our country. These scholarships provide students from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those from rural and regional Australia, the chance to study at one of the country’s leading universities.
For so many students, scholarships are not just a nice to have—they are the difference between being able to attend university or not. They open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed, and they allow students to focus on their academic and personal growth without the overwhelming burden of financial stress. And beyond the financial relief, scholarships represent something more profound: they are a signal of belief. A belief in the potential of a student, a belief in their future, and a belief in the value of education as a whole.
For me the C.A.S. Hawker Scholarship was exactly that. Not only did it provide me with the financial support to fulfil my dream of studying at the ANU, but continues to serve as a signal of someone’s belief in my potential. Supporting scholarships is about investing in the future. It’s about giving students the opportunity to not just study but to immerse themselves in an environment like Burgmann — one that will shape them into leaders, innovators, and contributors to society.
I am grateful beyond words for the opportunities that have been afforded to me. The friendships I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the personal growth I’ve experienced—all of this has been made possible because of the generosity of those who support scholarships and bursaries. Your contributions don’t just change individual lives; they ripple outwards, impacting communities, industries, and the nation as a whole.
In supporting scholarships, you are shaping the future. You are ensuring that the next generation of students can attend university, learn and grow as students, and become the best versions of themselves. And I can’t think of a more powerful or meaningful way to give back.
I ask you to continue supporting these vital programs. Your donations are not just financial contributions; they are acts of belief—in the power of education, the promise of young people, and the importance of community. If you are in a position to donate, please give today.
It’s been an honour to share my story and reflect on the profound impact Burgmann has had on my life. And I hope that, through your continued support, many more students will have the chance to create their own unforgettable stories here at Burgmann.
To support the College's Bursaries and Scholarships program, donate today using our online donation form.
