Mackay’s rising stars boosted with creative arts bursaries
Published on 10 December 2025
Three talented Mackay students have received a combined $7500 in bursaries to support their future creative aspirations.
The Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, the MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary and the Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary were presented by Mayor Greg Williamson at a special morning tea today (Wednesday, December 10).
Mayor Williamson congratulated the recipients and praised their dedication to the arts.
“These bursaries are an investment in the next generation of creative talent,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Ashling, Jaxon and Nerida have shown incredible passion and commitment to their craft, and we’re proud to help them take the next step in their artistic journeys,” he said.
Ashling Scanlon received the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary for 2025.
A recent St Patrick’s College graduate, Ashling will study a dual degree in Education and Creative Arts at QUT in Brisbane.
“This grant will enable me to purchase materials so I can further expand my experimentation with art and support my education as a whole,” Ashling said.
Ashling is a multi-disciplinary artist, focusing on oil and water-based figure painting, while also exploring acrylics.
Jaxon Anderson was awarded the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary, sponsored by the MECC and Friends of the MECC.
Jaxon, also a St Patrick’s College graduate, has been accepted into the Diploma of Musical Theatre at Queensland College of Dance and a Bachelor of Acting at Queensland Conservatorium.
Jaxon has performed in Mackay Musical Comedy Players productions since age 11 and hopes his studies will lead to a career in musical theatre across Australia and beyond.
Nerida Hansen received the $1500 Foundation Families Bursary, thanks to the Friends of the MECC. Nerida, a seasoned performer with 14 years of experience, has appeared with Opera Australia, Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Kucom Theatre and more.
She will study a Bachelor of Theatre (Musical Theatre) at CQUniversity’s Conservatorium of Music.