‘Growing Our Own’ with Scholarship Program Success 

Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns is continuing our mission to attract, support, and retain graduate teachers in our region with our latest cohort of teaching scholarship recipients. 

The scholarship program, which was introduced after foreseeing a nationwide teacher shortage, has helped to grow and retain our own talent, according to Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns Consultant Workforce Capability Sharon Brissoni. 

“Our scholarships have been highly successful in ‘growing our own’ by encouraging students to pursue a teaching career, secure a teaching position here in Cairns and complete their return of service in our schools, while also supporting our local universities,” said Sharon.  

2025 Scholarship Recipients Celebrated  

Recipients of the 2025 Scholarships were celebrated at a Scholarship event at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort with key stakeholders from JCU, CQU and Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns.     

“This year we celebrated 12 new scholarship recipients, bringing the total to more than 60 scholarships awarded to date and reinforcing our commitment to future-proof teaching in the Far North,” said Sharon. 

The five 2025 Year 12 Education Scholarship recipients will each receive a HECS-free degree, dedicated mentoring, and guaranteed employment as a teacher within one of our Catholic schools. 

The five 2025 Final Year Scholarship recipients will each receive $1200, placement in a Catholic school, and professional development sessions throughout the year as part of the ‘Getting Ready for Employment’ program.  

The two 2024 Change of Career Scholarship recipients will each receive $20,000, guaranteed employment as a teacher within a Cairns Catholic school and mentoring from experienced educators.   

In her inspiring speech at the scholarship event, 2022 Year 12 Scholarship recipient Olivia Parise shared how invaluable the support has been throughout her studies.  

“Being part of the Scholarship Support Network has given me a sense of belonging and encouragement. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of university but having a community of like-minded people who understand the ups and downs, who celebrate each other’s wins, and who remind you that you’re never alone – that’s something truly invaluable,” said Olivia.  

First Cohort of Career Change Graduates 

The Career Change Scholarship was introduced in 2023 to support skilled professionals with an undergraduate degree to make the career change to teaching with a Master of Learning and Teaching.

At the end of 2024 and early this year, the first cohort, including St Monica’s College teacher Trent Stievano, has graduated and commenced careers in our schools.  

“For me, the decision to pursue teaching came from a desire to make a meaningful impact. In my previous careers, I enjoyed mentoring and problem-solving, but I wanted to contribute to something bigger – helping shape the next generation,” said Trent. 

“I have now begun my teaching career this year, and so far, it has been an exciting and rewarding experience. Every day brings new challenges and learning opportunities, but seeing students grow, engage, and sometimes even pretend to enjoy my jokes has made the transition incredibly fulfilling.” 

Consider a Career in Teaching 

Graduate teachers in the Cairns Diocese receive an attractive starting salary of more than $81,000, with roles in rural and remote areas attracting additional allowances.  

“Now is the time to consider a rewarding career in teaching,” said Sharon.  

“There is a high demand for teachers in our region, our scholarship opportunities offer exceptional support and there are plenty of incredible career opportunities right here in the Far North.”  

The complete list of Scholarship recipients are as follows:  

Year 12 Scholarship Recipients 2025  

Willow Cole (JCU, Bed, Primary) 

Annika Reiha (JCU, BEd, Secondary) 

Georgina Stone (CQU, BEd, Secondary) 

Marlon Bellero (JCU, BEd, Primary) 

Martin Weiss (JCU, BEd, Secondary) 

Final Year Scholarship Recipients 2025  

Bonita Bridge (CQU,BEd, Early Childhood) 

Kim Jones (JCU, Master Teaching & Learning, Primary) 

Brayden Huey (CQU, BEd, Secondary) 

Danielle Millard (JCU, BEd, Primary) 

Maia Gambino (JCU, BEd, Primary) 

Career Change Scholarships 2024  

Kate Dunne (QUT, Master of Teaching, Primary) 

Racheal Butler (SCU, Master of Teaching, Secondary)  

Follow the links to find out more about Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns Scholarships and Employment Opportunities in the Diocese.