Named in honour of the late Mayor Barry Jarvis, the scholarship program continues his legacy of championing education and creating opportunities for people across the Dorset municipality. Barry served as a Dorset Councillor from 2007 before becoming Mayor in 2009, a role he held until his passing in 2015. He was a passionate advocate for education and lifelong learning.
Dorset Mayor Rhys Beattie said the scholarships reflected Council’s ongoing commitment to investing in local people and supporting the future of the region.
“The Barry Jarvis Education Scholarships recognise the dedication, hard work and ambition of local people who are striving to build their futures through education and training,” Mayor Beattie said.
“Barry Jarvis firmly believed that education opens doors and creates opportunities. These scholarships honour his legacy by helping local students, apprentices and trainees take the next step in their journey.”
Mayor Beattie said the calibre of applications received this year was exceptionally high.
“Council received a strong field of applications, making the selection process a challenging one for the assessment panel. Every applicant demonstrated commitment, resilience and a genuine desire to contribute positively to our community.”
“What stands out among this year’s recipients is their strong connection to Dorset and their desire to use their skills and knowledge to support local industries, businesses and community organisations in the future.”
Five Scottsdale High School Scholarships valued at $500 each were awarded to students continuing their studies in Years 11 and 12 in 2026: Monique Mahoney, Maigen Riley, Molly Fletcher, Aliqua Fursey and Cody Johnson.
Four Apprenticeship and Traineeship Scholarships valued at $850 each were awarded to Archie Cron, Abby Samec, Jake Forsyth and Leila-Jayne Atkins. Council elected to reallocate funding from the Agribusiness Scholarship category, which received no applications in 2026, enabling all four worthy applicants to receive support.
The 2026 Barry Jarvis University Scholarship, valued at $9,000 over three years, was awarded to Will Hadley, who is studying a Bachelor of Animal Science (Livestock) at the University of New England.
Mayor Beattie said the recipients embodied the qualities that Barry Jarvis valued most.
“These young people are excellent ambassadors for our region. Whether they are studying, learning a trade, building careers in agriculture, hospitality or engineering, or pursuing higher education, they represent a bright future for Dorset.”
“On behalf of Dorset Council, I congratulate all scholarship recipients and wish them every success as they continue their studies and training. We look forward to seeing the positive contributions they will make to our community in the years ahead.”
The scholarships were presented at a ceremony held at the Scottsdale Council Chambers on Monday, 22 June 2026, attended by recipients and their families, Dorset Councillors and members of Council’s Leadership Team.
To read more about each of the recipients, click here.
Attached Image: 2026 Education Scholarship Recipients
L-R: Cody Johnson, Molly Fletcher, Abby Samec, Aliqua Fursey, Mayor Rhys Beattie, Archie Cron, Monique Mahoney
Absent: Will Hadley, Maigen Riley, Jake Forsyth, Leila-Jayne Atkins