Burnie-born Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG was awarded Australia's 100th Victoria Cross after he was tragically killed in action while courageously drawing fire away from his team during operations against insurgent forces in Afghanistan on 22 June 2013.
Corporal Baird's Victoria Cross recognises the tempo, extremity and complexity of the fighting that he and his mates undertook in Afghanistan.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Guy Barnett, said that to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Corporal Baird, the Tasmanian Government proudly supports a Scholarship in his name.
"Corporal Baird's personal motto was "Aspire to Inspire". He was one of the most inspiring leaders within 2nd Commando Regiment, where he was chosen to be a leader for representing armed forces values, like toughness, leadership, initiative, and compassion," Minister Barnett said.
"Drawing on Corporal Baird's motto, the scholarship is a multi-format competition designed to increase awareness and learning about Corporal Baird VC and the experience of our veterans and serving members of the ADF.
"Today would have marked Corporal Baird's 43rd birthday. Tasmanians remember his gallant sacrifice, and we are honoured to do what we can to preserve his legacy."
Students intending to enrol in Year 11 and 12 in 2025 at any Tasmanian school or home-schooled are eligible to apply.
The Scholarships are open from 7 June 2024 with two successful entrants to receive $2,500 each to support their further education.
Online applications can be made through the Department of Premier and Cabinet's website, with outcomes expected to be announced in September 2024: https://www.dpac.tas.gov.au/divisions/cpp/community-grants
An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is continuing to support our valued veteran community, by:
- Providing funding for RSL Tasmania;
- Continuing the Teddy Sheean VC Memorial Grants Program;
- Continuing the Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize; and
- Supporting our veterans' health through our Wellbeing Voucher Program.
