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Community-focused organisations recognised for supporting student internship program

12 October, 2023

Image: Telethon Kids Institute staff and UWA student interns at the McCusker Centre for Citizenship's 2023 end-of-year event

The Department of Health, St Patrick’s Community Support Centre (St Pat’s) and the Telethon Kids Institute (TKI) were today recognised for their contribution to the McCusker Centre for Citizenship’s award-winning internship program at UWA.

More than 400 organisations in the not-for-profit, community and government sectors have partnered with the Centre to host student interns – with the three organisations acknowledged at the event some of the most active in hosting UWA student interns.

Image: The Honourable Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC, St Pat's Fundraising and Volunteer Coordinator, Melanie Watkins, and His Honour Judge Denis Reynolds

The Honourable Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC Chair of the McCusker Charitable Foundation and His Honour Judge Denis Reynolds Director of the Foundation presented the certificate of appreciation to representatives of all three organisations at the Centre’s end of year event.

“Students benefit greatly from their experiences with our host organisations, and 97% would recommend the internship to other students,” said Michelle Scott OAM, McCusker Centre for Citizenship Director.

“The Department of Health, St Pat’s and the Telethon Kids Institute, and their committed staff who have supervised our interns, have wholeheartedly supported our unique program.

“These organisations have provided students with opportunities for outstanding, real-world learning, through which they can make real and tangible contributions and make a positive impact on WA communities.” Ms Scott said.

Image: The Honourable Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC, Dr Simon Towler representing the Department of Health, and His Honour Judge Denis Reynolds

Recent interns with TKI have included Amy, who assisted with sustainability practices and Natalie, and Outstanding Intern Award recipient who supported two research projects.

Among recent interns with St Pat’s was Tea, who supported community engagement and education as a Marketing and Communications Intern.

Interns with the Department have included Akta, who supported the Surfing Intervention for Paediatric Patients program, and Chranise, an Outstanding Intern Award nominee who helped coordinate the Ride for Life awareness-raising event.