In recent times many Rotary Clubs have undertaken activities to help rural communities suffering financial burden due to adverse climatic conditions

And although all of these programs have great merit, they are only of a “band aid” nature. Unfortunately we cannot change the weather.

Realising the seriousness of long term climate change, the Rotary Club of Monash Inc. (Victoria) has accepted that the only long term assistance is the encouragement of education into farming techniques that will better cope with new and increasingly more adverse conditions.

Agricultural Colleges are constantly absorbing scientific information into their curriculum regarding dry land farming and it is vital that this information be given to our farmers. Unfortunately the Colleges have found a reduction in enrolments and even suspension of studies due to financial restraints.

The Australian Rotary Agricultural Scholarship Fund is administered by the Rotary Club of Monash Incorporated with strict guidelines being adopted and a Trust Deed registered with the Australian Taxation Office.

The Fund will provide scholarships of up to $5,000 per annum for students to attend a recognised Agricultural College and applications can be submitted through any Rotary Club or Agricultural College. All decisions will be made by the Board of the Rotary Club of Monash Incorporated.

In May 2008 the balance in the Fund of $9,000 was divided equally between four students who attend Longerenong College in Western Victoria.

Clubs are requested to examine their budgets for some form of participation and to contact PP Graham Shaw on 0427 054 612 or gnshaw@westnet.com.au for information or to arrange a Club visit.

PP Graham Shaw, Chair Committee of Management ARAS.

RC Monash Inc., PO Box 563, Mount Waverley, 3149

Further details of the Australian Rotary Agricultural Scholarships Trust can be found at the links below,

ARAST Trust Deed

Download the Trust Deed

ARAST Rules

Download the Rules