Scholarship ensures memory of John Maxwell lives on
Published on 01 May, 2013
A morning tea has been held to congratulate John Maxwell Memorial Scholarship winner Sarah Biskupski, who is the third recipient since the annual award was first offered.
Those attending included members of the Maxwell family, The Rock CEO Andrew Paynter and staff who once worked with Mr Maxwell.
Recipient Sarah Biskupski with The Rock CEO Andrew Paynter
Valued at $5000, The John Maxwell Memorial Scholarship has been established by The Rock Building Society in partnership with CQUniversity Australia to honour the late John Maxwell and his contribution to the Rockhampton region.
It is earmarked to recognise the academic achievement, career aspirations and community service of a student enrolled in their first year of an Accounting, Accounting/Business or Laws/Accounting degree at CQUniversity.
Recipient Sarah has had the confidence to tackle a double degree in Accounting and Business thanks to support from the scholarship. She is focused on her studies but still finds time to coach a girls' soccer team based at her former school, Emmaus College.
John Maxwell helped establish The Rock as a Central Queensland icon and was an integral part of the business for 43 years. He served as its first general manager, became a director in 1975, and served as deputy chairman from 1981 before becoming The Rock's Chairman in November 2007.
As a prominent Central Queensland businessman, John also practised as an accountant in Rockhampton for more than 35 years and was senior partner in the accounting firm Maxwell and Cameron Pty Ltd.
The Rock CEO Andrew Paynter described John as a ‘people person',
"John constantly helped and supported others, and his family and friends were paramount. His generosity also extended to the wider community.
"The Rock Building Society has established the scholarship in acknowledgement of John's professional accomplishments, thirst for knowledge and his desire to help others.
"The Rock is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and operate. The John Maxwell Scholarship is the perfect opportunity to honour a great man, as well as support the youth of Central Queensland. We wish Sarah all the best in her studies."
CQUniversity's Development and Alumni Relations Director Suzi Blair says scholarships play a major role in helping students succeed at University.
"We'd appreciate hearing from any individuals or organisations who can see the benefits scholarships make possible," Ms Blair says.
"I'd be delighted to hear from anyone via phone on 4923 2871 who is interested in contributing in this way."
