Murray High School student Tegan Simmonds and James Fallon High School’s Rebecca Thomson were awarded the headstart through Women in Chamber’s Development Program.

It is aimed at youngsters who wish to study on the Border, to encourage them to stay in the region once they are qualified.

Ms Simmonds will go on to study physiotherapy at Charles Sturt University in Thurgoona next year and she said the money would go towards vaccinations and a health course to prepare her for work placements.

Ms Thomson will also be at the university to study accounting and with textbooks costing up to $200, the money was vital.

The pair agreed without the contribution from the chamber they would have to work full-time, which would be a detriment to their university results because they would not have adequate time to study.

The students will also be invited to future Women in Chamber events and will be mentored during their studies.

“It will help with our futures because if I want to open my own clinic I’ll be able to get some ideas on how to do it,” Ms Simmonds said.

Women in Chamber chair Bronwyn Tyrell said they were chosen due to their community involvement through sport.

“They are both passionate about staying in the area to contribute when they achieve their career goals,” she said.

“The city’s bright lights can take a lot of talent so it’s important to encourage people to stay.”