Wendy Hall - an incredible legacy

The Wendy Hall Scholarship has made a lasting difference for young people with disability, helping them pursue education and career goals with greater independence and confidence. As this year marks ten years since Wendy’s passing, Northcott would like to acknowledge the recipients that have benefited from the scholarship over the years. Over the course of the scholarship, from 2016–2025, six students have been supported with their study costs, opening doors to opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise.

About the Wendy Hall Scholarship

Shortly before passing in early 2015, beloved and long-serving Northcott staff member Wendy Hall asked her family and friends to donate money instead of flowers. Wendy requested that the money be used to fund a Northcott scholarship that would enable people with disability to further their education. She was deeply passionate about ensuring people with disability had equitable access to tertiary study and vocational opportunities.

Funded through the generosity of Wendy’s family, friends and colleagues, the scholarship was open to students with a permanent disability who were past or present Northcott customers studying at university, TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation. Priority was given to students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, are from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, or live in rural and remote areas.

Noa’s story

In 2016, Noa was awarded the Wendy Hall Scholarship while studying a Bachelor of International and Global Studies (later transferring to a Bachelor of Arts).

“The scholarship really made a big difference,” Noa explained. “It meant I could get involved in extracurricular activities like debating and drama, and because I don’t drive due to my disability, it allowed me to get home safely after-hours using Ubers and taxis. Having access to an iPad also made studying much easier.”

With the funds, Noa purchased textbooks, an iPad and reliable transport, giving her access to opportunities beyond the classroom. Today, she is a graduate lawyer in a commercial litigation team, a role that reflects her determination and passion for learning.

Selina’s story

Selina was also a recipient of the scholarship in 2016. The support she received allowed her to continue her studies and go on to complete a Master of Environmental Science Management.

Her achievement demonstrates how the scholarship can open doors to advanced study and career pathways, equipping recipients with the skills and qualifications to follow their passions and contribute meaningfully to their fields.

Abdul’s story

Abdul is the most recent recipient of the Wendy Hall Scholarship and was encouraged by his sister Eeman to apply.

The scholarship funds proved invaluable: “It was really useful for making sure my computer and laptop could handle uni-related tasks,” Abdul shared. “It definitely made the decision easier when choosing what to buy, because I had a clear budget from the scholarship.”

With the support, Abdul purchased a new laptop, a high-quality monitor and later replaced his old PC when it broke down – all essential tools that made studying more accessible and manageable.

From Noa’s journey to the legal profession, to Selina’s completion of a master’s degree, and Abdul’s pursuit of his university studies, the Wendy Hall Scholarship has empowered students to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities and thrive.

While Abdul is the most recent recipient, the legacy of this scholarship – supporting six students between 2016 and 2025 – continues to be seen in the achievements and confidence of all who have received it.

Although the Wendy Hall scholarship is no longer available, there are other scholarships on offer from Northcott and the Spinecare Foundation, so if you are studying in 2026 please consider the scholarships available to see if one of them could be of assistance to you.