A scholarship brought Lachlan (known as Lockie) from Dubbo to Drew’s. Now he’s excelling in athletics, leadership, and study, thanks to the support of the Yim Family Foundation.
“It’s enabled me to focus more on study and training, and to maintain the social connections that keep me grounded. Since receiving the scholarship, my academic and athletic results have improved – and so has my mental health.”
– Lockie Townsend
Tom Yim (Fr 1966), was originally from Hong Kong, but grew up in country New South Wales while attending Scots AllSaints College in Bathurst. After school, he made his way to the University of Sydney to study law, and found a home at St Andrew’s College. His time at College left a lasting impression, and he has remained a dedicated supporter ever since.
Over the years, Tom has served on both the College Council and the Foundation, and is a Foundation Ambassador and member of the 1867 Circle. He has played a key role in establishing the College’s Indigenous Scholarship Fund and the Caldwell Scholarship.
In 2021, he responded to a challenge from his friend David Anstice (Fr 1966) to increase scholarship support, founding the Yim Family Foundation Scholarship to help other students from rural and regional Australia, as well as those from government or public school backgrounds to access similar opportunities that College life provides.
For Lachlan (Lockie) Townsend (Fr 2022), the Yim Family Foundation scholarship was the key that unlocked a world of opportunity, both on and off the track. Originally from Dubbo, Lockie came to Sydney to study a Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise Physiology) at the University of Sydney. Supported by the Yim Family Foundation and the University of Sydney Sport SAC Foundation Sport Scholarships, he’s now thriving academically, athletically, and personally.
“My experience this past year at university was super interesting and extremely valuable,” says Lockie, who immersed himself in practical, hands-on learning, from client interviews to exercise testing and rehabilitation programming.
Alongside his studies, Lockie has also carved out an impressive athletic career. Competing with the Sydney University Athletic Club (SUAC), he helped secure the UniSport National Championship title on the Gold Coast, earning podium finishes in the 1500m and 10,000m. He also represented the College in the Rawson Athletics competition, contributing to St Andrew’s overall victory. His dedication to his sport was recognised with one of Sydney Uni’s highest sporting honours, a University Blue.
“Receiving a Blue has been a goal of mine since moving to Sydney. To achieve that is something I don’t take for granted,” Lockie says. “I owe it to my family, friends, coaches, university, and the College for helping me get there.”
Lockie also stepped into leadership, joining the SUAC Committee and embracing the challenge of shaping the future of student athletics. Throughout it all, the support of his scholarship has been instrumental.
“Honestly, I would not be in Sydney, let alone at a great college like St Andrew’s, without the scholarship,” he says. “It’s enabled me to focus more on study and training, and to maintain the social connections that keep me grounded. Since receiving the scholarship, my academic and athletic results have improved – and so has my mental health.”
Lockie had the opportunity to meet Tom and Denise Yim at the annual Founders & Benefactors Dinner. This special occasion provided the perfect moment for Lockie to personally thank his benefactors, sharing his gratitude for their generous support. It was also a meaningful chance for Tom and Denise to witness firsthand the positive impact their generosity has had on one student’s life and academic journey. Moments like these really highlight the powerful connection between donors and students, and the difference each dollar can make.
Lockie is not only grateful for the support he’s received – he’s a testament to what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. “To my scholarship benefactors, I’m eternally thankful. You’ve helped me thrive in every way.”
To find out more about our Philanthropy program and Impact of Giving, read our 2024 Annual Philanthropy Report.