Fueling the Spirit of Climbing in WA
The Climbers Association of Western Australia (CAWA) is thrilled to announce the launch of the CAWA Scholarship Program. This initiative is about celebrating the spirit of climbing and supporting Western Australian climbers in their journeys. Whether it’s ticking long-term projects, discovering the beauty of outdoor climbing, or pushing personal boundaries, CAWA is here to help climbers embrace the adventure.
We believe every climber has a unique story to tell. With the right support, personal and collective goals can be achieved. By promoting outdoor rock climbing, encouraging growth, and fostering a connected climbing community, we hope to see more climbers challenge themselves and inspire others across WA.
Scholarship Categories
We are offering two categories to ensure a wide range of climbers can apply:
Experienced Scholarship - $1500
For climbers with 4 or more years of outdoor climbing experience. Ideal for those aiming to tackle significant climbing challenges or further their skills.Novice Scholarship - $1500
This is for climbers with less than 4 years of outdoor climbing experience and indoor climbers who have an ambitious climbing goal and a passion for growth.
Greg Carter exploring Peak Charles - photo: Jiri Stastny
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to:
Western Australian residents.
Both CAWA and non-CAWA members (non-members will be required to join CAWA if awarded the scholarship).
Climbers aged 12+.
Boulderers, sport climbers, trad climbers, and alpinists.
Individuals with inspirational, ambitious, or unique climbing goals. While we highly encourage outdoor climbing objectives, applications for indoor climbing goals will also be considered.
Application Process
Applying is simple! Follow these steps:
Complete the Online Application Form (below)
Submit your application by 11:59 PM on April 30, 2025.
Ensure your application clearly outlines your climbing goals and aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
Applicants may edit their submissions until the deadline.
All candidates will be notified within three weeks of the application deadline if they have progressed to the second stage, an interview with the CAWA Committee.
How Winners Will Be Chosen
A dedicated CAWA Committee will carefully assess each application based on the following criteria:
Climbing experience and achievements.
Clear and inspiring goals.
Potential for positive impact within the WA climbing community.
Feasibility and ambition of the climbing objectives.
Two winners will be selected-one from each category-based on the application and the interview and announced by May 31, 2025.
Some of the questions in the application form
Your climbing experience.
Short and long-term goals.
How will receiving this scholarship help you achieve your climbing goals? (200 words)
Challenges you have faced and overcome.
Why should you be awarded this scholarship? (200 words)
Explain your financial need and any significant financial challenges you face.
*Cedric Puig on Double Scorpion (**23) at Peak Charles
Photo: Jiri Stastny
Expectations from Scholarship Winners
Winning the CAWA Scholarship comes with a few expectations:
Represent CAWA: Winners will receive CAWA-branded clothing (t-shirt and cap) and are encouraged to wear it at climbing gyms, events, and during climbing trips.
Share Your Journey: Be featured in CAWA social media posts to inspire others in the community.
Present Your Progress: Give a short presentation at the CAWA Annual General Meeting (AGM), usually held in October or November, to share your climbing progress and how the scholarship has helped you.
The intention of scholarship money is for any climbing-related equipment, services or activities that will further your climbing goals or vision.
A First Step Towards Bigger Opportunities
This is the inaugural CAWA Scholarship Program. Based on interest and the results we see, it has the potential to grow into something even bigger. We are excited to watch the journeys of our winners and continue supporting WA climbers in achieving their goals.
Have questions? Contact us at CAWA@climberswa.asn.au.
Ready to take your climbing ambitions to the next level? Apply now!