The Joel Abernethy Advantage was established by the ACMF in February 2014, with a generous donation from Joel’s parents, Wendy Smyrk and John Abernethy, to honour their son’s memory.
Joel Abernethy was a young man from NSW, who began playing electric guitar at 11 years old. As his mother Wendy said, “Music was his solace, his passion and his creative outlet”.
Joel sadly passed away in 2010.
Every year, a discretionary award is given to provide support and encouragement to a young music student who displays outstanding personal and musical attributes.
This year, we are delighted to award two Joel Abernethy Advantage scholarships:
- Lani from Sydney, NSW
- Eliza from Rural Victoria
Meet Lani
In Year 6 at La Perouse Public School in Sydney, Lani loves all things creative, especially music. Lani is now one of the school’s leading public speakers, is part of the school choir, is in the school’s drumming group, is sporting house captain, and performing very well academically.
Introducing Eliza
Living in Hamilton, a remote, rural community in Victoria, Eliza has been learning the violin for two years which means a long drive to weekly lessons – over 90 kilometres. She is very musical and sings in the school choir and has performed at Christmas functions and the local church and markets. With limited financial support, this scholarship will support Eliza as she is in need of an upgraded instrument and new learning materials.
