This scholarship, which was supported by A1 Team Australia's leader, Alan Jones, was part of the inaugural A1 Grand Prix of Nations. The A1 Grand Prix will bring together 25 nations to compete in 12 race events in the UK, Germany, Mexico, USA, Portugal, Singapore and China among others. With three days of on-track action at each race event, the A1 Grand Prix of Nations brings the thrill of international motor sport to billions of fans across the globe.

The scholarship was a joint initiative of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, Office for Women and the NSW Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation in association with the A1 Team Australia.

The scholarship offered the chance for one young woman (aged 18 to 25 years as at November 1st, 2005) to be part of the A1 Team Australia's pit crew in the upcoming A1 Grand Prix of Nations. As part of the pit crew, the winner was able to closely observe a world-class motor racing team in action, and participate in activities that matched their level of knowledge and experience. The 2005 scholarship winner, 20 year-old Kirsty Last from Wollongong University, was selected by a panel looking for someone with the ambition, dedication and skills to make this an opportunity of a lifetime.

This was an exceptional opportunity for Kirsty to make contacts within the international motor racing industry, and learn from experts the requirements for surviving in this competitive sport.

Kirsty attended the Sydney leg of the race at Eastern Creek on 4th, 5th and 6th November 2005, and then flew to Dubai with the Australian team on December 7th for the next race event, returning on December 12th, 2005. The scholarship included return travel to Sydney and Dubai, as well as accommodation, meals and insurance in both cities for the duration of the race events. Kirsty was travelling and staying with the A1 Team Australia. Total prize value is approximately AUS $5,500.