Seventeen-year-old Lachlan, who lives in Manildra, was one of seven students from NSW schools to receive the $22,000-a-year scholarship to attend Australian National University (ANU).

Lachlan learnt of his success through a phone call from ANU alumnus Graham Tuckwell and his wife Louise, who established the scholarships in 2013 with a $50 million donation.

“I was speechless when I took the call,” he said.

“It took a couple of days for it to sink in and realise how significant it was.”

Lachlan plans to study medical science or biomedical engineering but will need to achieve an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank of 95 or more in his Higher School Certificate.

Lachlan said he’d encourage other students in the region to apply for the scholarships next year.

“They should take every opportunity they can in general and apply for as many scholarships as possible,” he said.

As well as supporting his studies at ANU, the scholarship involves academic and career mentoring.

According to Molong Central School principal Michelle Barrett, Lachlan was a perfect candidate for the scholarship.

“He has so many talents and abilities and a very unassuming nature,” she said.

“He’s gone above and beyond in terms of his academic achievements and he’s contributed to his school and community.”

She said Lachlan was an accomplished public speaker, outstanding leader, energetic charity worker and had twice represented Australia at the world karate championships and been part of the National Youth Science Forum.

“Lachlan is self-motivated, driven to succeed in all aspects of his life and an outstanding example for all students,” she said.

tracey.prisk@fairfaxmedia.com.au