Contact
Felicity McMaster
Country Education Foundation of Coolah was established to provide financial assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post-high school education, training and vocation aspirations.
We recognise that the cost of regional students pursuing further education and training is often much higher than their metropolitan counterparts and that sometimes, these costs can be prohibitive.
With this in mind, CEF Coolah fundraises throughout the year to provide financial grants to celebrate the aspirations of our local youth and help them achieve their goals.
Country Education Foundation of Coolah was established to provide financial assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post-high school education, training and vocation aspirations.
We recognise that the cost of regional students pursuing further education and training is often much higher than their metropolitan counterparts and that sometimes, these costs can be prohibitive.
With this in mind, CEF Coolah fundraises throughout the year to provide financial grants to celebrate the aspirations of our local youth and help them achieve their goals.
Our impact
since 2023
43
Students Supported
$110,626
In Financial Support
Our local grants
Local grants are provided to enable rural and regional youth to continue their education and training post high school, whether that’s university study, a trade, a diploma or certificate, or an apprenticeship.
Local grant funds are given as reimbursements to cover educational expenses like textbooks, travel, laptops, accommodation, tools, uniforms and other study related costs.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for a grant from CEF Coolah you:
• Are aged between 16-25;
• Live or went to school in the Coolah footprint;
• Can demonstrate need; and,
• Show commitment to achieving your goal.
After applications close, the committee will review all applications.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, with grants allocations based on the application and interview.
The CEF Extra Program provides additional scholarships funded by generous donors, corporate and philanthropic partners.
When you receive a local grant, you may be nominated for a CEF Extra scholarship.
Our 2025 Grant recipients.
Student FAQs
Which postcodes meet the eligibility criteria?
If you lived or attended school in 2843, you are eligible to apply for a grant from CEF Coolah.
What local schools are covered by the foundation?
Our local area schools
Coolah Central School
Is there an age criteria?
You must be between the ages of 16 and 25.
Your obligations
When you receive a CEF grant, you agree to the following obligations:
Notify CEF if any of your circumstances change. This includes contact or enrolment details.
Report to CEF every six months (mid and end of year).
Where possible, assist with and attend local foundation fundraising and promotional events.
Mid and End of Year Progress Reports
As part of receiving a grant, you will need to report to CEF Coolah and the CEF national office every six months on how you are progressing, how the grant has assisted you and provide your marks/grades for the semester if applicable. You will receive an email asking you to fill out an online form for mid-year and end-of-year progress reports.
How do I claim funds?
We do not provide cash grants directly to grant recipients. CEF Coolah reimburses you for a pre-agreed expense or pays for the goods and services directly to the provider.
You cannot be reimbursed for more funds or spend more money than you have been allocated in any financial year.
Please contact our Treasurer if you have questions about claiming funds.
Send us an email
CEF Connect Program
When you receive a CEF scholarship or grant, you automatically become a member of the CEF family.
Membership is free and opens up a range of benefits from mentoring and networking opportunities to speaker events.
See more about the CEF Connect Program here.
Can I apply again next year?
Grants are given on an annual basis, so you need to apply each year for funding. Keep an eye on the open and close dates of your foundation.
Our CEF Coolah Team
Country Education Foundation of Coolah is run by a committee of enthusiastic local volunteers. If you would like to get involved, volunteer or donate, please reach out to us.
Our Committee
Doug Arnott
Chair
I am a mixed livestock producer in Coolah married to Kirsty with 3 children. I believe that CEF is a great organisation for Coolah in that is very much aimed at local Coolah people helping and backing our youth to further their education. There is no doubt education is transformative for not only the individual undertaking it but also for their family and community as well.
Shelley Piper
Treasurer
My husband Derek and I and our two sons, have a beef cattle farm in Coolah. I have run a real estate business in Coolah (Piper Real Estate) for many years and we sell houses, farm and do property management. I am the Principal of the business, and I am passionate about our town and hope that the Coolah Branch of CEF can do our very best to assist the youth of Coolah.
Felicity McMaster
Secretary and Publicity Officer
I am a teacher, wife, mother and partner in a farming business, who is passionate about education and the opportunities it presents. I completed my Educational journey at Coolah Central School, Hurlstone Agricultural High School and Sydney University. I know first-hand the challenges faced by country students who wish to access further education, and I am excited to be part of the inaugural CEF Coolah Branch in our quest to provide support for our local students.
Penny Gilder
Minutes Secretary and Committee
Kim Holland
Committee and School Liaison
Max Wilson
Committee
Gordon Gilder
Committee
Rowena McDonald
Committee
Anne-Louise Capel
Committee
Lindy Piper
Committee
Our CEF Coolah Supporters
Our work in Coolah is made possible thanks to the support of generous individuals, local businesses and groups.
They help us continue our work to support local students.
Our local scholarships
Thanks to the support of local donors, we also offer the following scholarships.
What our CEF Coolah students & volunteers say
CEF Coolah News
Yass District Education Fund Adopts National CEF Brand
Yass District Education Fund Adopts National CEF Brand
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Robyn Rallies for Regional Youth
Robyn Rallies for Regional Youth
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Reconnect. Recognise. Realise.
Reconnect. Recognise. Realise.
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Student Support Key to Success
Student Support Key to Success
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Wallabies Out West to raise funds for CEF
Wallabies Out West to raise funds for CEF
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Margaret is Simply Outstanding
Margaret is Simply Outstanding
Read MoreCEF Coolah News
Yass District Education Fund Adopts National CEF Brand
Yass District Education Fund Adopts National CEF Brand
Read More
Robyn Rallies for Regional Youth
Robyn Rallies for Regional Youth
Read More
Reconnect. Recognise. Realise.
Reconnect. Recognise. Realise.
Read More
Student Support Key to Success
Student Support Key to Success
Read More
Wallabies Out West to raise funds for CEF
Wallabies Out West to raise funds for CEF
Read More
Margaret is Simply Outstanding
