As chair of the Country Education Foundation of Goulburn and District, he's witnessed school leavers go on to great things, thanks to a helping hand.

"We've had cathartic stories. We've helped change lives," he said.

"We're not the be all and end all but I'm sure with our mentoring that we've had an impact on lives."

Applications are open for the next round of financial grants provided to school leavers with their sights set on tertiary study, technical education or employment related opportunities.

ALSO READ: Kings Highway shut, under threat as Currowan fire breaks containment

Mr Milson said the Foundation was looking for goal-oriented young people up to age 21 who were financially needy. There is some flexibility in the age but this is assessed on a case by case basis.

The annual scholarships are awarded to anyone in Goulburn and district, including Marulan, Tarago, Taralga, Binda, Big Hill and more.

Recurrent funding is also available to help students through their second and third years of study or apprenticeship.

Last year, the Foundation distributed 36 scholarships worth $27,000. Since the Foundation began 16 to 17 years ago it has given out over 380 scholarships valued at $430,000.

Mr Milson said it relies on sponsors such as Rabobank, Gunlake Quarries and private befeactors who largely remain anonymous. Fundraisers such as the 'Long Lunch and Art in the Woolshed' held annually at the Milsons property, Cardross, west of Goulburn, are also vital.

READ MORE:

GDEF fundraiser 'The Long Lunch' at Cardross, Saturday, March 10

Goulburn Education Foundation applications open

Rabobank has supported the Foundation over 15 years and recently donated $5000. Goulburn branch manager Craig Croker said it was a way of supporting clients but also the community.

"The bank is very big on knowledge and network and this fits very much within our remit of agriculture," he said.

Mr Milson said scholarship recipients had gone on to be doctors, forensic psychologists, chefs and shearers, just to name a few.

ALSO READ: Smoke sends Goulburn's air quality off the scale

"We've had the whole gamut," he said.

"All we do is try and help, and with our mentoring, it's an arm around their shoulder."

Applications can be lodged online at the Foundation's website, https://cef.org.au/foundations/goulburn/

Alternatively, people can pick up a form from Boyce Accounting at 19 Montague Street, Goulburn.

Applications close on January 24, with interviews to be held on Januray 29. The successful recipients will be announced at a function at Boyce Accounting on February 7.

We care about what you think. Have your say in the form below and if you love local news don't forget to subscribe.