Full Circle: Jess Pays It Forward Through Stand Like Stone

Former scholarship recipient Jess Tresidder is giving back to the Stand Like Stone Foundation so other young people can benefit from the community foundation’s support. Pictures: Kiah Connolly.

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Growing up in the Limestone Coast, Jess says she understood early on the barriers many young people face when pursuing education beyond their hometown. Distance, travel costs and financial pressure can make the path to further study seem daunting.

“Growing up regionally, you see so many young people with big dreams but limited opportunities,” she said. “That support from your community — knowing they believe in you too — makes all the difference.”

Jess attended Tenison Woods College in Mount Gambier, where teachers encouraged her to take every opportunity available. That support led her to apply for scholarships through the Stand Like Stone Foundation, a charitable organisation that now provides around $100,000 annually in educational scholarships to students with a connection to the Limestone Coast — a figure that continues to grow as community support builds.

Receiving the L.E. & N.C. Myers Scholarship and the Lorry Humphreys Memorial Scholarship was a turning point. “It gave me the additional confidence to take the next step — to study business and neuropsychology, move to Adelaide, and experience things I never imagined possible,” she said.

Her scholarships opened the door to university study, internships and even time spent overseas — experiences that broadened her horizons and built lasting connections. “Those experiences shaped who I am. None of that would have happened without my community, family, friends and the foundation’s support.”

Now, several years later, Jess is paying it forward. Inspired by the opportunities her scholarships created, she has become a donor to the very fund that once supported her. Her contribution will help the next generation of Limestone Coast students overcome the same barriers she once faced.

“Now I’m in a position to give back — to help another young person achieve their dream,” she said. “If you lift a young person up, you’re supporting the future of your community. For me, giving back through Stand Like Stone just feels right. It’s my way of saying thank you.”

Jess’s story is one of many that illustrate the ripple effect of community generosity. Each scholarship awarded through Stand Like Stone’s Educational Scholarship Fund represents not just financial assistance, but belief in a student’s potential — a belief that can inspire lifelong gratitude and action.

As she reflects on her journey, Jess hopes others will follow her lead — both by applying for scholarships and by contributing when they are able.

“If you’ve got a dream but something’s holding you back, apply,” she said. “It can change your life. Education is something no one can take away from you — and there’s a whole community here ready to support you.”

Applications are now open for the 2026 Stand Like Stone Educational Scholarships, which help people with a connection to the Limestone Coast overcome financial barriers to achieve their education goals.

The foundation supports students from primary school through to university and vocational training, with scholarships established in fields such as nursing, viticulture and music, as well as for graduates from nominated local schools. Last year, $98,800 was awarded to 34 students, and that support continues to grow thanks to generous donors like Jess.

Applications close 15 November 2025, with scholarships awarded in December for study in 2026. For full details, visit our Educational Scholarships page or contact info@standlikestone.com.au.

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