The 2026 Cessnock Mayoral Scholarships celebrated local students taking the next step in education and training, with support from community sponsors including The Mutual Bank.
The event was a reminder of what is possible when local organisations invest in opportunity close to home.
Cessnock City Council and local sponsors came together to recognise recipients whose study and training will help shape the region’s future.
The Mutual Bank was proud to sponsor one of this year’s scholarships and support a local student on their education journey.
Creating opportunities close to home
The Mayoral Scholarship Program supports Cessnock residents studying in industries important to the region, including education, hospitality, tourism, engineering, healthcare, mining, communications and manufacturing.
By helping cover course fees, textbooks, technology and study resources, the program eases some of the costs that can stand in the way of further education.
Since 2002, the program has supported 283 local students across the Cessnock community.
A story behind every scholarship
Among this year’s recipients was Jemma Murphy, who received The Mutual Bank’s sponsored scholarship.
This year, The Mutual Bank’s sponsored scholarship was awarded to Jemma Murphy, a vocational educator continuing her studies in education and financial services.
Jemma said, “I feel incredibly grateful and honoured to have been selected as a recipient. Opportunities like this make a meaningful difference and provide invaluable support in helping students continue pursuing their educational goals.”
Her story reflects the broader impact of the program, helping build skills, confidence and opportunity across the region.
Backing our community for the long term
For The Mutual Bank, supporting the Mayoral Scholarship Program is part of backing stronger regional communities.
As CEO Mark Williams said at the presentation ceremony, “We chose to support the Mayoral Scholarship Program because we believe that uplifting individuals uplifts the whole community.”
He added that access to education helps build skills, confidence and career pathways, strengthening local families, employers and the future of Cessnock.
It is one more way local partnerships are helping students build their future close to home.
