A SCHOLARSHIP set up to honour the memory of a dedicated Tamworth environmental officer killed while on the job, has been awarded in front of his family in Newcastle.
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Bachelor of environmental science student at the University of Newcastle, Gemma Kelly, was presented the inaugural Glen Turner scholarship yesterday morning by Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) chief executive Terry Bailey and NSW parliamentary secretary Scot MacDonald.
Mr Turner was fatally shot while on a routine inspection near Croppa Creek in July, last year. His family, including his partner Alison McKenzie, met Ms Kelly yesterday after she received the scholarship which will allow her to continue her studies, where she is majoring in sustainability.
“Glen loved rural life, valued education and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone,” Ms McKenzie said.
Mr Turner undertook his surveying studies at the University of Newcastle in the 1980s before his career eventually led him to Tamworth and his role with the OEH.
Together with his family, the OEH set up the scholarship to help cover the costs of tuition for an environmental student and ease the financial pressure associated with studying.
“It was a bit of a sombre occasion but also a celebration,” Mr MacDonald told The Leader.
“I’m just really glad the OEH has decided to remember Glen in this way and it’s something that will go on for many, many years.
“We need to continue to remember it, and remember him, and his work in a very important policy area.”
Ms Kelly is pursuing a career in environmental science. The scholarship will let her do her masters.
“I’ve read all about Glen and I am honoured to be given this scholarship in his name. If I could do half of what he’s done I will be pleased,” she said yesterday.
“I just love environmental science. In fact the hardest thing about the course is I can’t choose something to specialise in. I just love it all.”
