Health supports the next generation of artists

23 Dec 2020

The scholarships are a unique partnership between the healthcare provider and Catholic Education Western Australia that aims to support students from WA Catholic Schools to continue their participation in the arts. 

This year two $1500 scholarships were offered to both a metropolitan and regional Catholic student, with the winners being Charli Windberg from Kearnan College and Rhiannon Roche from La Salle College.

St John of God Health Care Group Coordinator Arts and Health Deborah Pearson said that the scholarships align with the organisation’s Catholic ethos and commitment to supporting arts in the community. 

“It is important to support these talents to ensure the next generation of performers are nurtured," said Deborah.

“The arts are a fundamental part of the provision of holistic healthcare and support mental and physical well-being and recovery. 

“Our patients at St John of God Health Care hospitals and services benefit from actively participating in our arts and health program. 

“With hospitals spread across metropolitan and regional areas of Australia we are proud to extend the scholarship to these areas and ensure we are giving back the communities that we work in.”  

Cello player Charli Windberg is based in Manjimup and was nominated by Kearnan Catholic College Performing Arts Coordinator Amy Sarr. 

“Charli is a student who is passionate about all that she does," said Amy.

“Her love of cello and her receptiveness with her music tutor continue to produce very pleasing progress and beautiful performance pieces.

“Being from a rural area, Charli does not have the same opportunities as city counterparts, but with the support from her family, her music tutor, and now this scholarship, it is hoped that she will continue to develop in an area that she loves.” 

La Salle College Year 11 student, Rhiannon Roche is a flute musician and will use the scholarship to continue her studies.

“I’ve been involved in performing arts for the past 10 years and this scholarship will help me to continue my study of music and help me pursue something I am passionate about," Rhiannon said. 

“The scholarship will support my music lessons next year and the purchase of a new flute.”