From Busselton to beyond

A quantum physicist and Busselton Senior High School alumnus is packing his bags for a leading international university after winning one of Australia’s most prestigious scholarships.

Josh Snow, who graduated from the South West school in 2021 as dux, was awarded the John Monash Scholarship for 2026.

The scholarship is a postgraduate award that allows recipients to study in any field, at any international university, anywhere in the world. 

Mr Snow is one of just 18 recipients nationwide for 2026. Scholars were chosen for demonstrating excellence in their field, leadership aptitude and motivation to contribute to a better future for Australia. 

After leaving school, Mr Snow studied at the University of Western Australia. He is now a quantum physicist focused on supporting Australia’s goals in secure communications and advanced technologies. 

He plans to study at Stanford University, Harvard University or the University of Cambridge.  

Mr Snow said his goal was to access world-class expertise and experimental platforms before returning to advance Australia’s quantum capabilities. 

“The Sir John Monash Scholarship is something I’ve admired for a long time, so finding out I’d received one was incredibly exciting and humbling,” he said. 

Busselton Senior High School principal Jennifer McMahon said she was proud of Mr Snow’s accomplishment. 

“We are very proud of Joshua Snow, this is an exceptional achievement and a wonderful reflection of what students from regional public schools can achieve,” she said. 

“It is fantastic for current students to see what is possible for Busselton Senior High School students.

“We continue to provide opportunities for all students to flourish so they too can achieve at the highest level”.