Rick Farley Memorial Scholarship

The Rick Farley Memorial Scholarship for Indigenous people.

The Rick Farley Memorial Scholarship is for Indigenous people working in conservation management.  

Rick Farley died tragically in May 2006.  He was a remarkable Australian who was highly principled, a creative alliance builder and a consummate advocate for farmers, the environment and later Aboriginal rights. 

To honour his life and achievements his wife Linda Burney M.P. has nominated the Bush Heritage Australia to create a memorial scholarship for young Indigenous Australians to encourage excellence in conservation and cultural management.  Rick was a member of the Bush Heritage board from 2002 where he was particularly active in promoting alliances between the organisation and Aboriginal people.

President of the Bush Heritage Australia Phillip Toyne said ‘During his eight years at the helm of the National Farmers’ Federation Rick Farley led a transformation in thinking amongst many primary producers.  He was a highly significant figure in the Aboriginal reconciliation movement and his passion for the environment was a key factor in the establishment of Landcare.’

A cheque for $30,000 was presented to Bush Heritage by Max Bourke, Acting Chairman of the Thomas Foundation, to contribute to the scholarship.

The 2006 inaugural Rick Farley Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Wandandian man Darren Brown at Booderee National Park.

The 2007 Rick Farley Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Richard Mailman.