Three Southern Cross University Scholars Honoured on International Women’s Day
On International Women’s Day, Southern Cross University acknowledged three students as recipients of the 2026 International Women’s Day Scholarships. These scholarships, valued at $5,000 each, aim to assist women in overcoming barriers that affect their opportunities. Funded through the university’s Student Opportunities Fund, the scholarships highlight the academic achievements, community contributions, and resilience of the awardees across its Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, and Coffs Harbour campuses.
Scarlett Austin
Scarlett Austin, a Bachelor of Psychological Science student at the Gold Coast campus, plans to integrate equine-assisted therapy with her psychological practice, specifically focusing on at-risk young women. She is in the process of establishing a small business designed to provide therapeutic and educational support in natural environments. Maintaining a GPA of 6.33, Austin manages her studies alongside personal challenges related to anxiety.
Her volunteer efforts include supporting initiatives such as Riding for the Disabled and a horse rescue organization, as well as serving as a learning support teacher for children with diverse needs. Austin aims to improve access to nature-based mental health support for young individuals and women who may be reluctant to utilize traditional services.
Bridgette Glanville
Bridgette Glanville, a Doctor of Philosophy candidate at the Gold Coast campus, is researching the experiences of Autistic Trans and Gender Diverse individuals concerning communication and access to inclusive health services. While balancing her research with her responsibilities as a mother to a premature baby, Glanville has published her findings and is preparing to present at several national conferences.
As a clinical Speech Pathologist, she has worked with families impacted by autism and actively participates in the university’s Ally Network. Glanville aspires for her research to empower clinicians in creating safe communication environments for autistic trans individuals.
Adrienne Gooden
Adrienne Gooden, a PhD candidate studying in Coffs Harbour, is examining the behavioral factors and movement patterns of white sharks, particularly how human activities, such as climate change, affect their migratory routes. She co-founded the Young Marine Biologist Program to promote STEM pathways for youth and has volunteered with conservation efforts to share her expertise.
Gooden has expressed her enthusiasm for the varied components of her work, which include field research and educational outreach initiatives designed to enhance public awareness and dialogue regarding marine predators.
Celebration of Scholarship Recipients
The scholarship recipients will be celebrated at events organized by local community groups on the Gold Coast and in surrounding areas. Anna-Maree Shaw, the Vice-President of Future Students and Outreach at Southern Cross University, underscored the importance of these scholarships in fostering impactful research that benefits communities across Australia.
(Source: Southern Cross University)
