Cecil Brown Scholarship

The Cecil Brown Scholarship is a professional development opportunity supporting young people from the Monaro who are passionate about the sheep and wool industry and show strong potential to contribute to its future.

The scholarship honours Cecil Brown, a highly respected Monaro sheepman known for his integrity, humility and natural stockmanship, combined with a quiet willingness to embrace innovation and new ways of thinking. Cecil was deeply committed to mentoring young people and sharing knowledge, believing that progress comes from both experience and openness to change.

The scholarship is designed to provide recipients with opportunities to broaden their perspectives, skills and networks through travel, education and hands-on learning experiences. It particularly supports individuals with enthusiasm and potential who may not otherwise have the opportunity to gain exposure beyond the region, and who are keen to bring new ideas and insights back to the Monaro community.

Following a successful reinstatement of the scholarship, the most recent round in 2025 attracted six strong applicants, reflecting the depth of interest and capability within the region. The successful recipient was Hugh Platts, who will undertake learning experiences in New Zealand and Australia with a focus on strengthening his contribution to the Monaro sheep and wool industry.

The Cecil Brown Scholarship is delivered through a partnership between Monaro Farming Systems and the Cecil Brown Scholarship Committee, and is supported by sponsorship from industry and community partners. The committee looks forward to continuing and strengthening the scholarship into the future.