The well-regarded study tour will take place in Cividale del Friuli, in northern Italy, with all expenses paid for the winning Year 12 students.

Supported by the Queensland Department of Education and the Consulate of Italy in Brisbane, the initiative promotes excellence in Italian language studies in Queensland schools and rewards the high achievement of final-year Italian students.

Generous contributions from key members of the Italian community also play an important role in the initiative, with the number of student prizes awarded in any one year depending on the donations received and the number and quality of the applications received.

Last year, seven lucky students were awarded prizes from 38 entrants.

“It was massive,” Mariangela Stagnitti, president of the Committee for Italians Abroad (Com.It.Es QLD & NT) said.

Com.It.Es hopes to enhance the program by ensuring a level of continuity is maintained after participants have completed their trip abroad.

Stagnitti said she hopes to encourage students “to keep in touch” with the Italian network, even after they present their feedback presentations in August.

This will ensure career and networking opportunities are maintained in the long-term.

It’s all about strengthening the global Italian community.

The prize is intended for those who did not have Italian as their native or primary language at home.

The prize therefore attracts various applicants with a range of motives for studying la bella lingua.

Last year, one application was received from a boy who had learned Italian by helping his elderly Florentine neighbour do her gardening each week.

Applicants must be Year 12 students in Queensland studying Italian at the time of application, and must recount on their application form why they have pursued their studies, and to what end they intend to use their language skills.

Students must also recount some aspects of themselves in the written Italian language.

Applications are now open but, hurry – they’re closing this Friday, May 3.

Head to the Queensland Government’s website to apply.