Bursaries Open For Aspiring Visual And Performing Arts Students

Each year, council proudly supports the next generation of artists through three dedicated bursaries for visual and performing arts students.

Applications are now open for the Rick Wood Bursary, which honours the legacy of celebrated Mackay potter Rick Wood, and the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, which supports students seeking to elevate their tertiary studies.

The MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary, sponsored by the Friends of the MECC, is also open to applicants.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the bursaries played an important role in supporting young people who were pursuing careers in the arts.

“Choosing to follow your creative passion through tertiary education takes real courage, especially when it means moving away from home,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These students deserve our support, and we’re proud to help ease some of the financial pressures they face,” he said.

He also acknowledged the contribution of the Friends of the MECC in supporting the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary.

“The Friends of the MECC are tireless advocates for the performing arts in our region, and their support for this bursary is a wonderful example of grassroots investment in local talent,” he said.

“This bursary is available to performing arts students who have been accepted into tertiary studies in any aspect of the performing arts, including on-stage roles and behind-the-scenes disciplines such as directing and production.”

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary contributed $3000 to help students undertake special projects and study opportunities that enriched their final years of tertiary education.

“Past recipients have used the bursary to study abroad with expert tutors or to fund major exhibitions and showcases,” Ms Heathwood said.

“The $1000 Rick Wood Bursary assists graduating high school students to continue their studies of visual arts at university level,” she said.

“It may be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required by the student.”

All three bursaries are now open and will close on Friday, November 7, 2025. Recipients will be announced in December.

To apply or learn more about the Rick Wood and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursaries, visit artspacemackay.com.au/learning/bursary

To apply or learn more about the Jack Sturgeon Bursary, visit themecc.com.au/education/bursaries

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2024 Jack Sturgeon Bursary recipient Leo Gorrion, second from left, and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient Ebony Wright, second from right, with Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, Executive Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk, far left, and Artspace Mackay Gallery Director Tracey Heathwood, far right. Photo supplied

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