Two Tasmanian students have been awarded $2,500 by the Tasmanian Government to support their further education through the Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG Scholarships.
Burnie-born Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG was awarded Australia’s 100th Victoria Cross after he was tragically killed in action while courageously drawing fire away from his team during operations against insurgent forces in Afghanistan on 22 June 2013.
Corporal Baird’s Victoria Cross recognises his selfless actions, and the tempo, extreme nature, and complexity of the fighting that his mates undertook in Afghanistan.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Guy Barnett, said that Corporal Baird was one of the most inspiring leaders within 2nd Commando Regiment. Corporal Baird was chosen to be a leader for representing armed forces values, including toughness; leadership; initiative; and compassion.
“Corporal Baird represents the best of the best of us – and it is fitting we continue to honour his legacy,” Minister Barnett said.
“To commemorate the service and sacrifice of Corporal Baird through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are continuing to provide an education Scholarship in his name.
“Drawing on Corporal Baird’s motto ‘Aspire to Inspire’, the Scholarships are a multi-format competition designed to increase awareness and learning about Corporal Baird VC and the experience of our veterans and serving members of the ADF.”
Students intending to enrol in Year 11 and 12 in 2025 – at a Tasmanian school or home-schooled – were eligible to apply.
Scholarship applications were open from 7 June 2024 until 22 July 2024.
The recipients are:
