Kirsty Boden Memorial Scholarships Continue Inspiring Future Rural Nurses
The legacy of courageous Loxton nurse Kirsty Boden is helping the next generation of regional nurses achieve their dreams, with two Riverland students awarded Kirsty Boden Memorial Scholarships to complete their nursing degrees at Flinders University.
Third-year Flinders University nursing students Katelyn Hayes, from Berri, and Cheyenne Hogan, from Loxton, have each received the scholarships worth $10,000 each.
The Kirsty Boden Memorial Scholarships honour the Loxton nurse, who was tragically killed while trying to help victims during the 2017 London Bridge terror attacks. Awarded each year to regional students studying a Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-registration) at Flinders University, they help ease the financial pressures of study while encouraging more nurses to build careers in rural South Australia.
Honouring Kirsty Boden’s Legacy
Professor Tracy Humphrey, Vice-President and Executive Dean of the College of Health and Enablement at Flinders University, said the scholarship was a fitting tribute to one of the university’s graduates.
“She was a wonderful South Australian, and this scholarship will enable future generations of South Australians to become the health professionals of tomorrow, contributing to their communities in ways that would make Kirsty and her family proud.”
The State Government has committed a further $60,000 over the next three years through the SA Health Nursing and Midwifery Office, helping six more final-year regional nursing students complete their studies.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Blair Boyer said the scholarships were making a real difference.
“Not only is this initiative helping to retain Nursing students and in turn boost the workforce in SA, it is a way of honouring the incredible service and legacy of South Australian nurse Kirsty Boden and her heroic efforts to help other victims of the London Bridge terrorist attack in 2017.”
Supporting The Next Generation Of Rural Nurses
Growing up in Berri, Katelyn Hayes hopes to qualify as a nurse and give back to rural communities.
“I chose nursing to support people during times when they are most vulnerable.”
She said the scholarship had eased the financial pressure of travel and accommodation during clinical placements.
“This support has reduced my stress and enabled me to fully concentrate on my studies and placements. It has also been encouraging to feel supported while I’m working towards becoming a nurse in rural areas, to give back to communities similar to where I grew up.”
For fellow recipient Cheyenne Hogan, a mum of two from Loxton, the scholarship has helped make balancing family life and study more achievable.
“My children have been my biggest inspiration. My son and daughter have strengthened my desire to pursue a career where I can care for others and make a meaningful difference. I want to support people during vulnerable times in their lives while also creating a secure and fulfilling future for my family.”
Katelyn said receiving one of the Kirsty Boden Memorial Scholarships had eased the financial pressure of travel and accommodation during clinical placements.
“This support has allowed me to stay focused on my education and complete my placements without added financial strain. These contributions have made a real difference in my life and my children’s lives, helping me continue working towards becoming a nurse.”
“I want to be a compassionate, knowledgeable and capable nurse who provides high-quality, patient-centred care – and contribute positively to my workplace and community.”
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