Dr. Johnny Wu is a graduate and Dux of Don College. He was the highest achieving student in Year 12 in Tasmania in 1992. After years of further study, Dr Johnny is recognised internationally as an ophthalmic surgeon and he is grateful for his earlier education in Tasmanian Public schools.

As a gesture of appreciation of public education, Dr. Johnny has offered generous scholarships to Don College students who demonstrate aptitude in academia, leadership, arts, sports, and/or community service to provide financial support during their undergraduate degrees.

Our 2025 Don College Graduates receiving the Dr. Johnny Wu scholarship are Sarah Brewer and Sarah Bull. Sarah Brewer will study a Bach of Nursing at the Utas Burnie Campus and Sarah Bull will study a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics on the Sunshine Coast. We thank Dr. Johnny for his generosity and support and we wish Sara and Sarah every success with their studies and future careers.

Miss Sarah Bull – Recipient Spotlight

Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics | University of the Sunshine Coast

I am studying a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics at the University of the Sunshine Coast. I chose this degree because it combines health science, hands-on problem solving and direct patient care. As someone who also has a passion for art, the idea of creating life altering devices in a workshop setting appeals to me, just as much as the clinical side where connections with clients are formed. I am passionate about helping people improve their mobility, independence and quality of life, particularly those living with disability or limb loss. This career aligns strongly with my values of compassion, service and practical impact, and I hope to one day work as a clinical prosthetist back home in Tasmania, where support in this field is limited.

One of the challenges I faced while studying, was changing schools in my final year. I made the decision to transfer in order to access the bigger art program offered at Don College, and the opportunity to form new connections before heading off to university. Adjusting to a new academic environment, building new relationships, and continuing good results in Year 12 was challenging, but it strengthened my adaptability, independence and commitment to pursuing opportunities aligned with my interests and goals. Another challenge I had was when I took up opportunities to do public speaking through the student leadership and the anxiety that came with that. Addressing staff and students at assemblies and speaking at the formal celebration required confidence I initially had to build. Although public speaking can still challenge me at times, I have seen significant growth in my confidence over the year, and I am proud of myself for stepping outside my comfort zone, even knowing I still have more progress to make.

Throughout secondary education, I was consistently employed alongside my studies. I worked in a bakery on the weekends and in a disability support role during the week, which helped me develop responsibility, communication skills and a strong work ethic. My work in disability support was influential in shaping my career pathway, as it exposed me to the importance of person-centred care and the positive impacts of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

At Don College I actively sought out opportunities to get involved. I joined the student leadership team and helped organise and run activities during events such as Science Week, Men’s Mental Health Day and International Women’s Day. I was also a key organiser of the end-of-year graduation formal and addressed staff and students as a student speaker. During Science Week, I led an initiative that combined creativity and sustainability by creating a miniature indoor plant care guide and distributing it with plant cuttings to start propagation. I also helped implement a container recycling service, designing deposit bins that improved recycling participation and raise funds towards a future drinking fountain. In addition, I represented Don College at the UTAS Rural Clinical School forum, which involved talking to a group of year 10s about my career aspirations in health.

Miss Sarah Brewer – Recipient Spotlight

Bachelor of Nursing | University of Tasmania

I am studying a Bachelor of Nursing with the University of Tasmania, as I have a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on people’s lives, especially during vulnerable times. I am passionate about healthcare and want to provide compassionate, high-quality care to support patients’ wellbeing. Nursing offers the opportunity to continually learn and grow, both professionally and personally, while contributing meaningfully to my community.

One of the greatest challenges I have faced in studying has been balancing sport, employment, school and social life. At times, the workload has been overwhelming, but I have learned to manage my time effectively and prioritise what is most important. Overcoming these challenges has made me more resilient, disciplined and determined to succeed in both my studies and personal life.

During secondary education I have held two casual jobs, at Sportspower and Red grasshopper Pizza. I appreciate the flexibility of my employers and their ongoing support.

My contributions to Don include speaking at several school assemblies and representing the school in the wider community through sport. I have participated in events such as ANZAC Day and Vietnam Veterans Day, and served as the Tasmanian Student representative advocating for increased funding for public schools.