A young Rollands Plains man with a passion for environmental science and conservation will receive a $15,000 boost to his study efforts over the next three years after being awarded the inaugural Lewis Land Group Scholarship for Continuing Education.

Former St Joseph’s Regional College student Dylan Mason will commence the second year of a four-year Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies degree at The University of Sydney next year.

The announcement was made at the Hastings Education Fund (HEF) annual gala presentation on Monday 9 December with Dylan’s proud mother Bronwen representing her son on the night and conveying her thanks to Lewis Land Group’s Chief Financial officer Matthew McCarron.

A thrilled Dylan shared his disbelief from Sydney. “I’m stoked about it. It will definitely help me finish my studies, help pay for the cost of living in the city, equipment and textbooks.

“It’s really hectic here, I’ve come from a small rural community and I’ve been living in a building housing as many people as my hometown.

“This scholarship will alleviate a lot of pressure off not just myself but my mum who’s looking after me and my two younger brothers. It will set me up to hopefully make a difference to my mum and my community.”

Lewis Land Group Chief Executive Officer Chris Calvert said the scholarship will support the hopes and dreams of the Hastings’ next generation and the incredible work of HEF.

“Dylan was selected due to his fine academic performance during the first year of his study and his commitment to completing his education,” stated Mr Calvert.

“This scholarship will be extended to support up to three worthy tertiary education students at any one time.”

Lewis Land Group, developer of the Sovereign Hills master planned community, will provide $5,000 per annum for up to three years for students who, in the previous year, were recipients of a HEF grant.

“We understand that for most young people their financial struggle continues beyond their first year of tertiary studies,” explained HEF Chairperson Jim O’Brien. “We are delighted, therefore, to announce the introduction of two continuing scholarships thanks to the generous sponsorship of existing diamond sponsors, Lewis Land Group and Kay and John Burman”

The scholarships will operate in the same way as the initial HEF grant by reimbursing approved education related expenses such as textbooks, computers, specialist clothing or equipment.

Since its establishment in 2011, HEF has assisted 220 students in their first year of further education or training through cash grants which have totalled $500,000. In 2020, HEF will assist 30 students – all graduates from high schools within the Hastings – with their further education or training.

Lewis Land Group and the Sovereign Hills master planned community have been proud to support the HEF grant program for the past three years and in 2020 will also donate $10,000 to ensure more students receive assistance.

“Many students need to move to metropolitan centres to pursue courses of their choice. Students are not able to do this without financial support. In many cases families are just not in a position to provide that financial assistance so HEF plays an essential role in making it possible for these students to pursue their goals,” Mr O’Brien added.

“Our motto is dream, believe, achieve. We, the HEF committee, encourage young school leavers to have dreams and set ambitious goals for their future. We also encourage them to believe in themselves and by supporting them, the HEF is demonstrating their belief in these young people and helping them to achieve their goals.”

Dylan is a shining example of the students HEF is encouraging.

“My dream job would be an environmental scientist or conservation biologist… I could end up working as a field researcher anywhere in Australia,” finished Dylan who’s looking forward to enjoying the Christmas break back at home with his family before returning to the city for another big year of study.