The late Ned Churchward OAM was a leading figure in Bundaberg's sugar cane industry so it's fitting that an annual $1000 bursary reflecting his name will encourage students enrolling in the Bachelor of Science (Agricultural and Food Science specialisation) program at CQUniversity...

The EH & FC Churchward Sugar Industry Trust Bursary was presented to a first-year student this year. But it will be awarded to a worthy second-year student in future years.

Inaugural recipient Tim Behrens (centre) is congratulated by Professor of Horticultural Science Phil Brown and Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman

Apart from rewarding academic achievement, those selecting the recipients will prefer students who express an interest in pursuing a career within the sugar cane industry, or agriculture in general within the Bundaberg region.

The bursary will provide a strong incentive for students to live, work and study at university level locally, and to become an active participant in their region's future.

Mr Churchward had a keen interest in science, research and the beauty of the natural world, and believed in the potential of young people. The degree of Honorary Master of Science was conferred on him by CQUniversity in 2001.

During his lifetime, Mr Churchward saw his name attached to a weir in Bundaberg and a research station in Tully. He held leadership roles with the Queensland Cane Growers' Council over several decades and was the growers' representative for the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations (BSES).

The bursary committee has been supporting primary and high schools in Bundaberg for many years and has now extended to support students wanting to pursue a career in agriculture at a tertiary level.

Inaugural recipient Tim Behrens (centre) is flanked by L-R Prof Phil Brown, bursary committee members Veronica Timm (Treasurer), and David Pickering (Chairman of the Bursary Trust) and VC Professor Scott Bowman