Dr Peter Yeung and Dr Judy Yeung grew up in Hong Kong and both were awarded scholarships to pursue their tertiary education. Peter studied hard with the dream of studying medicine. Though his academic results were exceptional, his family couldn’t financially support him to go to medical school.
“Because of my upbringing, I didn’t want my family or my brothers to take the burden of my livelihood, so I worked while I studied to keep me going.”
Peter and Judy meeting 2022 Peter Yeung Dental Scholarship recipient, Swezie Bitalac, at the Melbourne Medical School Celebration Dinner.
With the life-changing support of scholarships, they made the decision to move to Australia to study dentistry and oral health at the University of Melbourne. These scholarships gave Peter and Judy the confidence to plan their futures. For Peter, moving here meant the difference between going to university or not.
Peter and Judy not only met here, but found a supportive and exciting environment at the University and during Peter’s first year at Wilam Hall (former Medley Hall). Peter completed his Master of Dental Science in 1968, while Judy worked for a government-funded children’s dental scheme. They later established their own private dental practice.
Their decision to support the University through gifts in their Wills was a natural progression of their enduring passion for dentistry and improving the lives of others, and an important next step in their philanthropy. Peter and Judy’s legacy gifts enable them to continue supporting what is most important to them and making positive change.
“After years of working and saving, we always wanted to give something back. We decided to do something about it.” It was their own experiences that motivated them to support the next generation of dental scholars during their lifetimes and in their Wills.
Thanks to Judy’s generosity, the Peter Yeung Dental Scholarship was established to support budding dentists enrolled at Melbourne Dental School. “My husband is very passionate about his work, his dentistry,” said Judy.
Peter described this scholarship in his name as an honour, which aligns with his own generous spirit. “Some students cannot afford
to study. They are not given the opportunity. I am lucky those students can benefit from this scholarship.”
Each year Peter and Judy meet the recipients. “We feel very lucky. We like that we can add to this scholarship in our Wills, so we can continue with our purpose when we are gone.”
Beyond dentistry, Judy has established the Judy Yeung Early Career Research Fund for Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) and Euthanasia, a research area close to her heart.
Judy’s gift will support researchers at critical stages during their careers and bring enhanced understanding of euthanasia and VAD, empowering people to make informed choices.
For anyone considering a gift in their Will, Peter and Judy say: “Don’t wait. If it’s something you’re passionate about, do it now and do it quick, because tomorrow may be too late.
“Do whatever you can to donate, because it will help so many people. Even a small amount can grow."
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