The Katherine Branch was formed in 1978 and since then has actively assisted families to ensure that our children have access to an education that best meets their needs and circumstances. At present, we have fifty members, six of whom are also on the NTICPA State Council. Most of our members are families of Katherine School of the Air while other members reside in small communities or in the rural areas outside of Darwin. The branch is an incorporated association and is a totally voluntary organisation.
The core business of Katherine Branch ICPA, as with ICPA branches all over Australia, is to seek equity of access to educational opportunities for rural and remote students. To this end the branch keeps members up-to-date with educational issues at a local, state and federal level, assists members to participate in conferences and lobbying opportunities, and offers financial assistance to children and students in the form of grants and bursaries. Katherine Branch ICPA was instrumental in obtaining the provision of accommodation for bush students in Katherine. Callistemon House, now administered by the Dept of Education, allows students to board and attend Katherine High School or St Joseph’s College.
Over the years fundraising to support the branch’s activities has largely consisted of catering for functions, auctions and raffling of donated goods. We have developed partnerships with local businesses such as Nutrien, and many other local businesses and entities who have also generously provided valuable support and sponsorship in recent years.
The branch also administers a bequest from long-time friend of ICPA Katherine Branch, Val Utley. Katherine Branch organises a Biggest Morning Tea during Inschool in June in memory of a dedicated and hardworking member, Carol Armstrong and proceeds go to the Cancer Council.
Katherine Sports Camp 2023
Thankyou Nutrien!
Currently, the Katherine Branch of Nutrien organises an auction at the Katherine Show or sells donated goods through their merchandise store. Due to their continued and generous support, ICPA Katherine Branch is not only able to fund members to attend State and Federal Conferences, but can also offer financial assistance to families through several grants and bursaries.
Most grants and awards require families to have been members for at least one, sometimes two years. Members receive email notification when grant and award entries are open, along with information on closing dates and entry criteria.
Thank you to Nutrien - Ben Coutts & Sophia Tapp.
Nutrien Boarding School Grant
This is a yearly grant to assist members with the costs associated with educating children via boarding away from home, at a registered boarding school facility.
Eligibility of Applying for this Grant:
- Must be an ICPA member for a minimum of two (2) full years and a current Katherine Branch Member.
- Must be transitioning or currently studying in Middle or Senior Years.
- Student must be studying full time and under 18 years of age.
- Student must reside in a rural/remote area and be eligible for AIC.
- Must be an active member. Ie attend meetings regularly, assist with fundraising activities etc.
The grant applications close on the 31st of October each year.
If you wish to apply for this grant please contact the Vice President of the ICPA NT Katherine Branch via the links in the "Our Team" tab above.
The Extraordinary Opportunity Grant
The aim of the “EO Grant” is to provide financial support to students wishing to pursue an extraordinary opportunity in the fields of sport, arts, music, agriculture, or academics. An extraordinary opportunity may come in the form of a particular sporting event, a unique study opportunity or camp. Applicants need to have a passion and proven commitment to their chosen field.
Open to Individuals or Groups – applications accepted all year round.
ICT Grant
This is a one off grant to assist members with the cost of purchasing education related ICT equipment required to support student learning. Each student can apply once in each category
- Primary,
- Secondary
- Tertiary
Applications open November 1.
Personal Development Grants
Available to pre-primary children and all students, from Primary to Post-secondary.
Grants are to assist families with costs associated with activities related to personal development of the child, for example, Sport, Music, Drama, Excursions, Art and Craft. Eligibility criteria apply. The grants are advertised in Term 2 and presented during Inschool in June.
Val Utley Memorial Awards
This Award is sponsored by the Utley family and is available to all Members’ children, seventeen years and under. The Award recognises, encourages and supports rural and remote NT youth in various endeavours, such as travel, enterprise, courses and educational or medical expenses. Eligibility criteria apply.
Royelene Hill Art Competition
Open to all members’ children, KSA and NTOEC students. Judged during Swim Week Term 4 in Katherine and presented at the KSA/MYSOA Christmas Concert.
Branch Sponsorship
Sponsorship of events that enhance or contribute to Geographically Isolated Members. Open all year.
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Katherine Branch face-to-face meetings are held during KSA Inschool in June and KSA Swimschool in December (AGM). Two to four teleconference meetings are also held throughout the year.
All interested persons are invited to join the branch or association. Simply forward your membership fee of $50 along with your name and address to branch Treasurer Hanna Blokland or Assistant Treasurer, Helen Harding.
Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the activities that Katherine Branch are involved in such as sports camps, auctions and much more. Click on the link below and ensure you like the page to keep informed.
Amazing Outgoing Secretary, Katie Payne
President Connie Wood & MLA Katherine MLA Member, Jo Hersey
ICPA NT Newsletter | Down the Track
ICPA NT Katherine Life Members, Helen Harding and Sally Sullivan
