Albert Coates Memorial Trust and Federation University Foundation Scholarships

W&D Finance is proud to again sponsor two Federation University Foundation Scholarships through the Albert Coates Memorial Trust in 2025. These scholarships recognise students who demonstrate strong academic achievement while managing significant personal challenges. 

Biomedical Science Scholarship 
Awarded to Kristina Leaver-Schwarz who balances family responsibilities as one of eleven siblings while maintaining excellent academic results. 

Nursing Scholarship 
Awarded to Frah Adrees who began her education in Australia after spending two years in a refugee camp with her family. She was the highest-scoring applicant in her nursing cohort. 

Directors Andrew Baird and Neale Gribble attended the Albert Coates Oration and Scholarship Dinner to celebrate this year’s award recipients. W&D Finance is pleased to support opportunities that strengthen regional education. 

The Trust honours Sir Albert Coates, a pioneering surgeon and humanitarian born in Ballarat who served in both World Wars and dedicated his life to improving medical care. 

To learn more about Albert Coates and the Trust established in his honour, visit albertcoates.com.au.