The aim of the Churchill Trust is to give opportunity, through financial support, to Australians from all walks of life who, having exhausted opportunities within Australia, desire to further their search for excellence overseas. There are no prescribed qualifications, academic or otherwise, for the award of most Churchill Fellowships. Merit is the primary test, whether based on past achievements or demonstrated ability for future achievement in any walk of life. A major determinant is to what extent all Australians will benefit through that Fellow bringing home knowledge, new skills or experience in their particular field.
Fellowships are awarded by the Churchill Trust of Australia. The Trust was established in 1965 after the death of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. In 1962 the Duke of Edinburgh had asked Sir Winston Churchill what memorial he would like to be established in his name. In reply, Churchill suggested something similar to the Rhodes Scholarships, but available to all and on a much wider base.
Sir Winston Churchill died on 24th January 1965 and the Churchill Memorial Appeal Day occurred in Australia on Sunday 28th February 1965. Organisers hoped to raise $2m across Australia, but collected a remarkable $4.5million, making it one of the most successful fund-raising events ever held in this country. The funds were carefully invested and since 1966 have allowed more than 3000 Australians to undertake Churchill Fellowships overseas.
A Churchill Fellowship benefits everyone and everyone is a winner!! The individual because their determination, drive and dedication is recognised; their organization because one of their number is recognized for excellence; and Australia because the Churchill Fellow will return with skills and knowledge not readily attainable here.
Complete information about Churchill Fellowships, how to apply for a Churchill Fellowships, and even a list of Churchill Fellows and their reports, is available on the Churchill Trust of Australia’s website at www.churchilltrust.com.au