CIGRE Australia is proud to announce the recipients of the CIGRE Australia 2026 Paris Session Moira and Richard Bevan NGN Scholarships, awarding four exceptional young professionals the opportunity to attend the CIGRE Paris Session in August 2026, the influential global forum for power system expertise.
Selected through a highly competitive process, the scholarship recipients represent the very best of Australia’s emerging talent. Each recipient has demonstrated not only exceptional technical, but also a clear commitment to building a long-term career in the power industry. They have actively contributed to CIGRE Australia, the Next Generation Network, and other professional power engineering initiatives.
2026 Scholarship Recipients (in alphabetical order)
- Caolin Griffin – Powerlink
- Cassandra Ma – Synergy
- Kunj Thekdi – DIgSILENT
- Chris Wembridge – TasNetworks
The CIGRE Australia 2026 Paris Session Moira and Richard Bevan NGN Scholarships provide full registration for the CIGRE 2026 Paris Session, return economy airfares and accommodation up to the value of A$6,000. Recipients will also contribute to and benefit from the Next Generation Network (NGN) programs.
CIGRE Australia Chief Executive Officer Peter McIntyre said the 2026 recipients exemplify the future of the industry.
“This year’s scholarship submissions were outstanding in both quantity and quality, demonstrating the remarkable talent of emerging engineers. These scholarships go beyond conference attendance. They are an investment in the next generation of leaders who will shape the evolution of our power systems.”
Honouring a Legacy of Service and Leadership
The CIGRE Australia 2026 Paris Session Moira and Richard Bevan NGN Scholarships are named in recognition of 30 years of dedicated service to CIGRE by Richard Bevan and his wife, Moira, whose combined contributions have left an enduring impact on both the Australian and international CIGRE communities.
Richard Bevan’s leadership spanned more than a decade at the highest levels of the organisation. He served as Chairman of the Australian National Committee from 2007 to 2011, represented Australia on the CIGRE International Steering Committee from 2008 to 2016, and held the role of International Treasurer from 2012 to 2016. Through these roles, he played a pivotal part in strengthening international collaboration and helping guide CIGRE through a period of significant global change.
Reflecting on the 2026 scholarships, Richard Bevan highlighted the unique opportunities they provide for emerging engineers to advance their careers.
“Attending the CIGRE Paris Session is a game-changing experience in the career of a young engineer. Exposure to the world’s leading power industry technical exhibition, and the opportunity to network and establish relationships with fellow engineers at an international forum, is without peer.”
Alongside Richard, Moira Bevan was a passionate supporter and valued contributor to CIGRE partner programs, with active involvement across local, national, and international events. Her engagement helped foster the welcoming and inclusive culture that continues to define the CIGRE community today.
Together, the Bevans’ legacy reflects the values these scholarships seek to advance: technical excellence, service, mentorship, and a commitment to developing future leaders.
About the CIGRE Paris Session
The CIGRE Paris Session is the world’s premier gathering for power system professionals, attracting more than 3,600 delegates and 9,000 industry participants from over 100 countries. The 2026 Session will once again serve as a global platform for technical exchange, innovation, and collaboration across the full electricity value chain.
Through initiatives such as the Moira and Richard Bevan Scholarships, CIGRE Australia continues to invest in the people who will lead the energy transition. By supporting emerging engineers to engage at a global level, the program strengthens not only individual careers, but the future capability of the Australian power system.
CIGRE Australia congratulates Caolin Griffin, Cassandra Ma, Kunj Thekdi, and Chris Wembridge on their selection.
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