Thursday, 23rd January 2025
The Kokoda Trail scholarship recently announced by Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham will be named the Farnsworth Lochhead Lowe Scholarship.
The naming of the scholarship recognises the following fallen soldiers who did not return to their families and lay in Bormana Cemetary, PNG:
VX15468 Warrant Officer John Lochhead, of Mildura killed in action 29/11/1942 northern beaches campaign, aged 29
VX25669 Pte Raymond Farnsworth, of Merbein killed in action 8/9/1942 at Brigade Hill, aged 24. Grave B3.C.10
VX45512 Lance Corporal Edward Lowe, of Red Cliffs died 14/9/1942 at Ioribaiwa Ridge aged 27, Grave A1.D
Ms Benham said the naming of the Scholarship, made in consultation with the Mildura RSL Sub-Branch, recognises the service of these fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
The Farnsworth Lochhead Lowe Scholarship program will offer year this year’s year 10, 11 and 12 students in our region the opportunity to honour the district’s wartime history while embarking on a life-changing experience.
This unique scholarship supports participants to trek the historic Kokoda Trail, gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made during World War II and the values of courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice.
Ms Benham is encouraging local families with ties to the Kokoda campaign and who share a passion for preserving Australia’s military heritage to contact her office with any other names to add to her register of those who served as the team will be walking in their footsteps and learning their stories.
“I want to make sure that we have as much local knowledge as possible so we can delve into those stories whilst on the trail.
“The Kokoda Trail is not just a physical challenge; it’s a journey of reflection and learning.
“This scholarship provides an incredible opportunity for our young people to connect with our history, honour the legacy of our veterans, and grow as future leaders.”
Information about the scholarship and the application process will be sent to schools at the beginning of the school year. Local families with connections to Kokoda or young people eager to seize this opportunity are encouraged to contact Ms Benham’s office for any further information.
Local businesses who are interested in financially supporting this scholarship or being involved in the program are also encouraged to contact the office of Ms Benham.
The Nationals are dedicated to ensuring regional communities have representation in this significant program which they have been part of since 2015.