The recipients of the 2026 Tasmania Police Charity Trust TasTAFE Scholarships have been announced.

The Trust is generously supported by police officers and state service staff, through payroll and online donations and everyone who contributes to the annual Tasmania Police Charity Trust Bike Ride and Golf Day.

Established in 2024, the Tasmania Police Charity Trust TasTAFE Scholarship supports the education goals of young people in need, who are committed to improving their own opportunities, and outcomes for their communities.

“It is rewarding to see how the Scholarship is helping young people engage with their TasTAFE course, and build better futures for themselves and their communities,” said Chair of the Trust, Commissioner Donna Adams.

The successful recipients for 2026 are:

• Southern District – River Campbell – Certificate III Conservation and Ecosystem Management. 16-year-old River is committed to protecting Tasmania’s natural habitats. “This scholarship means I will be able to fully participate with the personal protective equipment and tools required for field work. I live in a rural area, so I’ll be able to buy a laptop to study on the bus and at home.”

• Southern District – Natasha Machin – Diploma of Nursing. Twenty-one-year-old Natasha is committed to completing her nursing studies and helping others. “The scholarship will help me buy a laptop and help with other expenses so I can fully focus on my course.”

• Northern District – Annabelle Kirkham – Certificate II Cookery. Twenty-three-year-old Annabelle lives in the north-east and is committed to becoming a chef. “It can be challenging travelling long distances to study. This scholarship will contribute to accommodation in Launceston and help buy the personal protection equipment for my course.”

Each student will receive $2000 towards expenses associated with their TasTAFE course, such as a laptop or travel costs.

“Congratulations to River, Natasha and Annabelle. I look forward to hearing updates about their progress through their courses.   

Thank you to all the students who applied and I wish them well in the study year ahead,” said Commissioner Adams.