PICTURED ABOVE L to R – Recipients of the 2026 Audi Foundation-CEF Alumni Awards: Alumnus of the year – Lachie Barrett (CEF Coonamble), Launching Star – Isabella Smith (CEF Griffith), Young Achiever – Brooke McCarthy (Great Lakes), Rising Star – Rosemaree Nairne (CEF Coolah), Community Champion – Jorja Schofield (Hastings) and Louisa Gilmour (CEF Gwydir) with Jeff Mannering, Executive Director, Audi Australia
The achievements of six Country Education Foundation (CEF) supported students from rural and regional Australia, and their impact on local communities and beyond, were celebrated on Friday 9th October with the announcement of the recipients of the 2026 Audi Foundation-CEF Alumni Awards.
Sponsored by Audi Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Audi Australia, the recipients were announced at a luncheon held at NSW Parliament House.
The awards honour a select number of past and present CEF supported students who demonstrate merit, commitment and dedication to their studies or training, and are making standout contributions in their communities.
CEF CEO, Wendy Mason, said the Awards were a highlight on the CEF calendar, marking the culmination of another year of supporting rural and regional youth to pursue post-school education and training.
”Each year, it is a privilege to congratulate and celebrate our recipients who are achieving great things in their chosen fields. These individuals have gone the hard yards, often persevering through tough times to achieve their educational and career goals.
Wendy MasonCEO - Country Education Foundation
Ms Mason also noted the integral role of the CEF local foundations in supporting local youth.
“Without the ongoing commitment from our wonderful volunteers who give their time and effort to support their local youth, none of this would be possible. The awards are also a chance for us to extend our heartfelt thanks to them for believing in the student’s goals from the beginning”, she said.
Director of Audi Australia, Jeff Mannering, was proud of the recipients’ achievements and the impact they were having in their chosen fields.
”Audi is a big believer in aspiration and drive to fulfill one’s potential. Anything is possible with the right attitude, focus and determination and we are proud to celebrate these students and alumni in achieving their goals.
Jeff ManneringDirector of Audi Australia
It’s individuals with self-drive like this who often go on to be leaders in their industries. We are very proud to be able to support some outstanding talent from regional areas.
With over 40 nominations received across the CEF network, the recipients are all driving for progress in their chosen field. Their passions range from advancing STEM for young women, to education and advocating for rural communities, better health outcomes, media, communication and sports management, showcasing that education not only changes individuals, but also families and communities.
The recipients of this year’s awards showcase the diverse and inspiring paths that CEF supported students embark on, reflecting the multitude of opportunities that education creates.
The recipients are:
