As the year draws to a close, I have been reflecting on what has been my first full year as CEO of the Churchill Trust. It has been a year of listening and learning, and one that has allowed me to meet so many remarkable Fellows who generously shared their work, ideas and aspirations. Every conversation has reaffirmed what makes this community special: curiosity, generosity and a shared belief in possibility. I am incredibly proud to lead an organisation built on that spirit.
This year, we delivered 19 information sessions across the country. These conversations helped generate 1,022 applications, which were then carefully assessed and refined until we reached our final group of 100 new Churchill Fellows. Beyond selection, it has been a year rich in activity. We held more than 30 events across Australia, including ceremonies celebrating 121 medallion recipients. Another highlight was the 2025 National Churchill Fellows Convention in Melbourne, bringing Fellows together in person for the first time in several years. We were also honoured to host The Hon Jeremy Soames as the keynote speaker, offering a memorable reflection on legacy and future vision.
So, notwithstanding the fact that we have not yet finished 2025, I would like you to begin thinking about 2026. Could it be your year to apply? What knowledge might you bring back to Australia? Who might benefit from what you learn?
Applications for the 2026 Churchill Fellowships open on 27 February. Key dates and information sessions will be available online. Information sessions begin in early January and will include online events as well as face to face gatherings around the country. If you attend, you will hear directly from Fellows who have taken this journey before you and learn what makes a strong application. Our data shows that applicants who attend an information session have a much higher chance of success.
Everyone has a story. Sometimes it is bold, sometimes it is quiet, sometimes it grows slowly and sometimes it sparks quickly, but it is always worth telling. If your story leads you overseas to bring learning home, then this might be your moment. If you have applied before and were not successful, try again. Persistence is often part of the Fellowship story.
Your idea might change your field. It might change your community. It might even change you.
And if 2026 is the right time, we would love to hear it.