Griffith Country Education Fund provides financial assistance for students moving into tertiary studies, easing the burden that can often debilitate aspiring teens.

"Just because you're from a small town, it doesn't mean you have to have small dreams," ex-recipient Laura Pattison said.

"I actually received my grant six weeks before an unpaid placement, so it was really beneficial for me as I couldn't really work."

The spirit of the Griffith community shone bright during the ceremony, with sponsors from across the MIA making an appearance to see the faces of tomorrow they were eagerly assisting.

Yenda Producers, Griffith City Council, MIA Coaches, the Sikh community, Yarran Wines and Riverina Water Engineering were but a few of the major sponsors lending a helping hand to the next generation.

Griffith CEF committee chair Craig O'Keeffe wanted to thank all of this year's sponsors, praising the generosity of Riverina locals.

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"All our wonderful sponsors do a great job, they just want to give back to the community," he said.

"A big pat on the back to all of them, I know from the recipients and their parents that I've talked to, they all appreciate it greatly."

Interest in the Griffith Country Education Fund is currently at an all time high, with so many locals wanting to help, that not enough chairs were available at this year's committee meeting.

Since its inception over a decade ago, hundreds of thousands of dollars have assisted countless students from across the MIA, inspiring a large number of community members to raise their hands and help further this great cause.

Councillors from Griffith City Council, Anne Napoli and Rina Mercuri, attended the event to show support for the CEF and local aspirants.

"After talking to some of the students here today, these grants really do go a long way in relieving some of their financial pressures," Cr Napoli said.

"I think that's just fantastic, anything we can do to help our support our young people, we should do."

"I know a few of the recipients that received grants last year and they've since told me how much it really helped them, it's really beneficial," Cr Mercuri said.

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It has been Australia's lost summer. Drought, hail, floods and, worst of all, bushfires have ravaged communities all over the nation. But the selfless actions of friends, family, neighbours, strangers, local groups and volunteer organisations have inspired us and strengthened the bonds of community. Please join us in saying thanks to the heroes of the home front by sharing your stories of gratitude. To salute a person or a group, please use the form below.