Birrell off to Europe on Churchill Fellowship

By Tyler Maher

Jun 22, 2023

Churchill Fellowship: Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell will complete a study program during the winter break from parliament. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell will spend part of the winter break from parliament completing a study program, which he hopes will provide key knowledge and information for the region.

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Mr Birrell is set to complete a Churchill Fellowship, looking at world’s best practice in co-operation between industry and secondary education.

Mr Birrell was awarded the Churchill Fellowship in early 2020 prior to being elected, but was unable to complete the study due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

“There has been a disconnect between the business community and secondary education in the region, and more broadly across Australia,” Mr Birrell said.

“As a community leader, I applied for the fellowship so I could look at best practice in bringing together education and industry to engage young people in the highly skilled and technical jobs in local industry.

“My plan all along was to bring that knowledge back to educators and industry in the region, and although my role has changed, it is still something I want to pursue so we can provide fulfilling career pathways by getting schools and businesses working together.”

Mr Birrell will travel to the UK, Germany, Sweden and Finland. The study tour is fully funded by the Winston Churchill Trust, which allows people from all walks of life to travel overseas to explore a topic or issue about which they are passionate.

“My electorate work will continue despite the time differences, and my electorate office will operate as normal,” Mr Birrell said.

Details of how to become a Churchill Fellow can be found at www.churchilltrust.com.au