Thomas is a first year student at the University of New South Wales, studying a Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine.

Thomas hadn’t considered medicine until his father experienced a medical emergency and there was no specialist to perform the operation locally. Following the operation in Sydney, Thomas took up the role of reporting his father’s condition to the surgeon by phone after they returned home.

He hopes to specialise in ophthalmology after he has completed his studies.

Scholarship recipients were awarded with their scholarships at a ceremony at Sydney Showground on Thursday night, August 3. Thomas could not attend.

The event followed two regional ceremonies hosted in Wagga Wagga and Armidale, at which guests celebrated the achievements of 64 inspiring rural scholars who share a commitment to the future of rural and regional New South Wales.

RAS Foundation executive officer, Kate Ross said since the inception of the Rural Scholarship Program this is the largest group of scholars awarded yet, and is thrilled the Foundation will again provide a springboard for country students to achieve their educational goals.

“This year the RAS Foundation will proudly support a diverse group of talented individuals, all with amazing and unique backgrounds, who are passionate about rural and regional NSW,” Ms Ross said.

The RAS Foundation has awarded over $1.7m to over 370 rural scholarship recipients since 2011.

“Each of the students on our program is passionate about making a difference in their chosen field. This variety reflects the diversity of skills that rural and regional communities require to flourish and prosper,” Ms Ross said.

The RAS Foundation’s 2018 scholarships are currently open for applications and provide $6000 for full-time study and $3000 for part-time study. To apply please visit www.rasnsw.com.au/foundation/scholarships-and- grants/.