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Media Release

June 1, 2005

Wanganeen awards his first UniSA scholarship to inspire learning

Star Port Power player, Gavin Wanganeen, will award Port Augusta mother of four Laurel Dodd the inaugural Gavin Wanganeen Indigenous Scholarship in person at a special event tonight at the University of South Australia that will highlight support for Indigenous students.

Laurel is a full-time student enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing at UniSA’s Whyalla Campus and works at the Port Augusta Hospital. She completed her enrolled nurses training in South Australia in October 2002.

In 2003, Dodd was recognised as the NAIDOC National Indigenous Apprentice of the Year and was also recognised as one of two nurses named top in their respective fields at the Nursing Excellence Awards. In 2004, Dodd was named the South Australian Local Hero (Regional) for her contribution to the local Port Augusta community.

A role model for Australians, Dodd has been an inspiration to others and a strong advocate for the power of education to improve people’s lives.

While not a university graduate himself, the Brownlow Medallist, Power Best and Fairest, two-time premiership player and first Indigenous player to be granted AFL Life Membership, Wanganeen says it is vital that role models such as Laurel Dodd are rewarded and encouraged.

"I believe Indigenous kids need a range of role models – some in sport but also, teachers, business leaders, nurses, researchers and other careers. I hope the scholarship will support more Indigenous students at university so that they can contribute by becoming leaders in Australia and good examples for Indigenous children across the country."

The Gavin Wanganeen Indigenous Scholarship will be awarded this year at an Indigenous Scholarships Presentation Ceremony to be hosted by UniSA Chancellor David Klingberg on Wednesday, June 1 2005 from 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm at UniSA’s City West campus (Hetzel Room, level 2, 160 Currie Street, entrance from Clarendon Street). The scholarship has been supported by corporate sponsors Australia Post and Corporate Express.

Additional scholarships to be presented at the special ceremony during Reconciliation Week include the Shirley Harper Indigenous Scholarship in Education; the Irene and David Davy Scholarships; the Aboriginal Advancement League Grants; and the Division of Business Indigenous Scholarship.

Irene & David Davy Indigenous Scholarship

Winners: Scott Kropinyeri, (Port Lincoln) Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Policy & Management); Lorna Woodley, (Port Lincoln) Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies); Kenneth Lechleitner, (Alice Springs, now Netley) Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Policy & Management)

Shirley Harper Indigenous Scholarship in Education

Winner: Jaqui Harfield, (Smithfield) Bachelor of Education (Junior Primary & Primary)

Aboriginal Advancement League

Winners: Kim O’Donnell, (Strathalbyn) Master of Primary Health Care (Flinders Uni); Laura Winslow, (Murray Bridge, now Myrtle Bank) Master of Arts (Aboriginal Studies)

Division of Business Indigenous Scholarship

Winner: Sam McCann, (Port Lincoln now Plympton) Bachelor of Commerce

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