2026 ARV/Bon Leisure Scholarship Award

Qualifying period 1st January 2025 - 31st December 2025.

Nominees will be required to attend an interview as part of the award criteria. All nominees will be contacted to confirm time, date and location for their interview. Nominees must be available during this time to qualify.
The interviews will be based on the content that was provided in the written component. (40 points)

ARV/Bon Leisure Scholarship Award Interviews - between 14 May 2026 - 28 May 2026 

Please ensure your nominee is available during these dates before nominating.

The ARV/Bon Leisure Scholarship Award has been established to support the continued growth and professional development of the Australian recreation and aquatic industry (ARI) through international study, industry engagement and leadership development. The scholarship aims to:

1. Advance the Profile of the ARI: Strengthen and promote the national standing of the recreation and aquatic sector by investing in emerging leaders.

2. Enhance Industry Knowledge: Equip recipients with global insights by exploring international trends, innovations and best practices. 

3. Build International Networks: Facilitate meaningful connections with global counterparts, fostering collaboration and long-term partnerships. 

4. Develop Future Leaders: Identify and nurture individuals with the potential to influence, shape and contribute to the future success of the ARI. 

Scholarship recipients will be selected through a competitive application process. Applicants will be assessed based on the following key attributes:

• Industry Experience: Demonstrated time and depth of experience in the recreation and aquatic industry
• Leadership Capacity: Ability to build and maintain strategic relationships at a management level
• Commitment to the Sector: A clear and ongoing dedication to the values, advancement and sustainability of the ARI
• Capacity for Influence: Demonstrated ability to lead and implement change within their organisation or the wider industry
• Evidence-Based Impact: Applicants must clearly articulate and provide examples of how they meet the above criteria

The selection process will include multiple stages to ensure a thorough evaluation of all applications. The assessment process includes:

• Submission of a detailed application in accordance with the attached application form
• Confirmation of the applicant's availability and ability to travel internationally within the designated timeframe
• Formal endorsement from the applicant's employer, including approval of paid leave to participate in the scholarship program
• Submission of a proposal to present findings at the ARV Annual Metro Conference
• Review and scoring of application materials by the judging panel
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview
• Reference checks will be conducted as part of the final evaluation