NOTE: Foundation Scholarships are open now for application, and close Monday, 16 February 2026.
Each year, the Matthew Flinders Foundation provides scholarships to support outstanding students who are eager to contribute to the College community and make the most of a quality education.
On Friday, 12 December 2025, Foundation Chair Mr Murray McCarthy and Foundation Board Member Dr Amanda Bell hosted an afternoon tea with graduating Foundation Scholar Summer Wills-Rawlings and her father, Dion, alongside incoming Foundation Scholar Mirabelle McLean.
It was a chance for Summer and Mirabelle to connect, reflect and share their experiences of life at Flinders with the Foundation Board members.
Mr McCarthy said it was rewarding to learn about the opportunities and success Summer and Mirabelle were enjoying as a result of their Flinders education.
“The Matthew Flinders Foundation is focused on philanthropic efforts to engage with our school and local community for the long-term benefit of our students,” Mr McCarthy said.
“The Foundation is thrilled to provide financial support to make a Flinders education possible for students who would not otherwise be able to afford a quality independent education.
“Summer and Mirabelle are wonderful role models for our Foundation Scholarship program as students with special talents who are committed to giving it their all whether through their academics, co-curricular interests or service to the College and wider community.
"Their enthusiastic approach to participating fully in the life of the College should inspire their peers and set them up for success beyond graduation.”
Matthew Flinders Foundation Scholars
Mirabelle commenced at Flinders in Term 4 of Year 9 in 2025 in preparation for Year 10 in 2026 and made an impressive start, focusing strongly on her studies and receiving an Academic Endeavour Award after just one term.
Summer joined the College in Year 11, 2024 and graduated with the Class of 2025, exploring her love for sport and showing dedication to her studies. As part of the Flinders Elite Athlete Program (FEAP), Summer was supported to balance her academic workload and sporting commitments while learning from experienced mentors.
She captained the AFL team and competed in rugby, rugby sevens, cricket and volleyball. Introduced to rugby by the Flinders Director of Rugby, Mr Matt Crawford, Summer discovered a new passion for the sport.
Summer and Dion thanked Murray and Amanda for the Foundation Scholarship.
“In appreciation for this Foundation Scholarship, I was determined to make the most of my time at Flinders, particularly through sport,” Summer said. “I love sport and it is one of the best ways to build friendships and connections and have a healthy break from study. There are so many different sports teams and school competitions to be a part of here.”
In 2026, Summer will study Nursing at the University of the Sunshine Coast and looks forward to remain connected to the College through coaching the Flinders Year 7 girls rugby team.
