Brooke McCarthy – Recipient of the Audi Foundation-CEF Young Achiever Award 2026. Interviews available on request
Country Education Foundation alumna, Brooke McCarthy from Rainbow Flat, who is also the Manager of the NSW Women’s Newcastle Knights has been recognised as the 2026 Audi Foundation – CEF Young Achiever! Brooke was recognised at an event at NSW Parliament House for her determination, talent and early career accomplishments.
Brooke McCarthy
Local foundation:
Great Lakes Education Fund
Institution:
University of Newcastle & Torrens University
Course:
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
Bachelor of Business (Sports Management)
Award:
2026 Audi Foundation-CEF Young Achiever
Brooke was honoured at the CEF Luncheon, on Friday 9th October at NSW Parliament House, where the 2026 Audi Foundation – CEF Alumni Awards (the Awards) were presented. The CEF Luncheon is a signature event on the Country Education Foundation (CEF) calendar.
The Awards honour past and present CEF-supported students across five categories who demonstrate merit, commitment and dedication to their studies or training, and are making standout contributions in their communities.
The Audi Foundation – CEF Young Achiever Award is presented to a recent graduate with determination and talent, resulting in early career accomplishments in their field of choice.
Country Education Foundation CEO Wendy Mason said Brooke was a shining example of a student’s potential, when given the right support.
“Brooke demonstrated commitment and drive early on in her educational journey by completing two, full-time university degrees, which she is now using in a highly reputable, high-performance environment as the Manager of the NSW Women’s Newcastle Knights team,” Ms Mason said.
“She has also been extremely resilient after the trauma of losing her father last year, so to achieve what she has in such as short space of time is remarkable.”
Brooke was a CEF-supported student throughout her studies from 2020 until 2024 and said the recognition of receiving the Audi Foundation – CEF Young Achiever Award meant a lot to her when she had to rebuild her life after suffering the loss of her father.
”I cannot speak highly enough of the Country Education Foundation, particularly the local branch in Forster – the Great Lakes Education Fund. From the very first day, they took me in and welcomed me wholeheartedly, and Helen constantly messages and checks in on me, even years after I have finished up.
This funding played a huge role in helping me find my footing in a new place.
Brooke completed a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) through the University of Newcastle and a Bachelor of Business (Sports Management) through the Torrens University in 2024.
She is currently working as a social worker at Kurri Kurri High School, alongside her work with the NSW Women’s Premiership Newcastle Knights team.
When it comes to words of wisdom for students chasing their dreams, Brooke said students should just “go for it”!
“Even if you are uncertain, still go for it! Back yourself. You don’t have to have all the answers right away. You can have anything you want; you just need to be willing to work for it.”
