The Australasian Institute of Chartered Loss Adjusters (AICLA) has launched a new annual scholarship.

The Carey Bird Scholarship is open to AICLA members up to the age of 40, plus older members who are completing modules for the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance’s Diploma of Loss Adjusting.

The award commemorates the memory of former Marsh employee and AICLA member Carey Bird, a victim of the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes.

Entrants must submit essays of 1500-3000 words based on a scenario involving the “reinstatement of a major structural fire loss”, which AICLA CEO Tony Libke says has been deliberately set as a practical task.

“We have other awards which are purely academic, but not this one,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“People can demonstrate their skills as a loss adjuster and arrive at some practical outcomes.”

The winner can attend either the Claims Convention in Sydney or the Asian Claims Convention. Airfares, accommodation, meals and out-of-pocket expenses will be covered.

Submissions close on April 30.