Two exceptional students from Waimea and Murchison have been awarded scholarships from Network Tasman Trust – including two of this year’s prestigious Sir Wallace Rowling scholarships, each worth $4,000.
Murchison Area School’s Jack Collins has been awarded a Sir Wallace Rowling scholarship in recognition of his academic perseverance, leadership and outstanding sporting dedication.
Jack was the sole Year 13 boy at Murchison Area School, yet travelled more than two hours each way, three times a week, to train with the Waimea Combined Schools’ First XV BaaBaas. He went on to make the New Zealand Area Schools national team, reflecting his work ethic and character.
As head boy and a member of the student council, Jack showed consistent dedication to student voice and community involvement, earning respect both at school and in the community. He will study a diploma in sport, recreation and exercise at NMIT, followed by a bachelor’s degree.
Waimea College’s Malia Denny has also been awarded a $4,000 Sir Wallace Rowling scholarship. Malia is an academic standout, placing in the top 10 of her year group and earning excellence endorsements across Levels 1, 2 and 3 while balancing leadership roles, service commitments and sport.
She has been a Big Sister mentor, a head student, an active contributor to Educate South Sudan, as well as a member of the enviro group and student council.
Malia also represented Waimea College in the Senior A basketball team and the 1st XI hockey side, alongside her leadership and academic work, demonstrating her strong commitment to school sports. She plans to study law and commerce at Victoria University.
Network Tasman trustee Ian Kearney said both students demonstrate extraordinary resilience.
“Jack and Malia are impressive young people who have shown maturity, commitment and real heart. Their stories are powerful examples of what determination – and community support – can achieve.”
