A Legacy of Opportunity: Craig Ruddy's Scholarship Empowers First Nations NT Medical Students

Craig Ruddy's journey as an artist was deeply intertwined with his appreciation for Indigenous culture and his own struggles with a life-threatening illness. His acclaimed portrait "Two Worlds," which won the prestigious Archibald Prize in 2004, depicted the renowned Yolngu actor, David Gulpilil, carrying a powerful message of recognition and reconciliation for Indigenous Australians. In honor of Gulpilil and influenced by his own medical challenges, Ruddy pledged part of the proceeds from the sale of the artwork to support health and education initiatives for First Nations Australians in the Northern Territory. DONATE

Craig Ruddy drawing David Gulpilil in 2004

Following Ruddy's passing in January 2022, his partner Roberto Carlos Meza Mont established the Craig Ruddy Scholarship at Flinders University. This annual $5,000 scholarship is dedicated to supporting Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander medical students in Flinders University's NT Medical Program. The scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens for students, providing assistance for study equipment, resources, mentoring, or other needs crucial for academic success and graduation. DONATE

The inaugural scholarship was awarded to Karlie James and Sarita Lawler, both committed to making a positive impact on health outcomes in remote communities. With public contributions encouraged, the Craig Ruddy Scholarship continues to provide vital support for Indigenous medical students, enabling them to pursue their studies and contribute to improving health standards in vulnerable remote populations. All donations to the scholarship fund are tax-deductible and directly benefit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in the Flinders NT Medical Program. DONATE