Scholarship fuels CDU student’s passion for science and sport

Charles Darwin University (CDU) student Amy Cook is using her passion for science and sport to make a difference in the Northern Territory (NT), thanks to support from the 2025 Carbine Club Sports Scholarship.

Miss Cook, who is currently completing a Bachelor of Science (Honours) at CDU, was one of two recipients of the $2,000 scholarship, awarded to students who demonstrate sporting excellence alongside strong academic achievement.

“Receiving the Carbine Club Sports Scholarship has helped ease the financial pressure of balancing full-time Honours study, part-time work, and competitive sport,” she said.

“It allowed me to travel to Adelaide for the Australian Calisthenics Carnival, where I participated as both a competitor and coach, without having to sacrifice my academic commitments. It’s been an incredible support in helping me pursue both my scientific and sporting goals.”

Miss Cook's Honours research aims to identify the sources of bacteria in Darwin’s Lake Alexander.

Working in partnership with the City of Darwin and Bioscience North Australia - part of CDU's Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods (RIEL) - she is investigating how environmental factors, including weather and land use, influence water quality in the iconic local swimming spot. 

“It’s exciting to contribute to research that’s directly relevant to the community,” Miss Cook said.

“Through CDU and RIEL, I’ve been able to apply science in real-world contexts that support environmental sustainability in the NT."

With over a decade of experience in calisthenics, Miss Cook is also a senior competitor and coach at the Arafura Calisthenics Club in Darwin, where she plays an important role in mentoring young athletes.

Relocating from Melbourne to Darwin in 2022, she earned her Level One coaching accreditation in 2024, leading the Sub-Junior team to victory at the NT State Championship – all in her debut season.

She also competed in the Senior section, helping her team make Territory history by winning the first senior championship held in more than a decade.

“Calisthenics teaches so much more than performance,” Miss Cook said. 

“It builds confidence, leadership and the ability to thrive under pressure - qualities I use every day in the lab and in life.”

"Darwin has offered me incredible opportunities, both professionally and personally, and I feel strongly about giving back, whether through science, community work, or mentoring the next generation of athletes through calisthenics."

More than 500 scholarships places will be awarded at CDU in 2025. 

CDU Vice-Chancellor and President, Scott Bowman, said Miss Cook’s story was an inspiring example of how scholarships empower students to reach their potential.

“Amy is achieving excellence both in the laboratory and on the sporting stage,” Professor Bowman said.

“Her research is making a real contribution to the health and sustainability of our local environment, while her sporting leadership is inspiring young athletes across the Territory.

“Scholarships like the Carbine Club Sports Scholarship are an investment in our students, our community, and our future - helping talented people like Amy to thrive without being held back by financial barriers."

To explore CDU’s full range of scholarships, visit: cdu.edu.au/scholarships.