Queensland Volunteering Awards 2025

Noel Sherrington has been a dedicated volunteer with St John Ambulance Queensland since 1984, amassing over 14,000 service hours. He has held several key roles, including Corporal, Superintendent, Divisional Officer, Regional Coordinator, and State Training Officer for Event Health Services. Noel’s contributions span event health service delivery, operations coordination, volunteer support, and statewide policy and training development.

During the 2011 Queensland floods, which affected 75% of the state and caused 33 fatalities, Noel played a pivotal role in St John’s response, ensuring timely and compassionate care for those impacted.

In 2022, he was instrumental in reforming Health and Medical Services (HMS), helping to re-establish a strong, volunteer-led service that provides care at events and in emergencies. Additionally, as an instructor and training coordinator, Noel has empowered many volunteers with vital skills for delivering life-saving care.
Noel’s unwavering dedication exemplifies the core values of humanity, compassion, and excellence upheld by St John Ambulance Queensland.

Peter Morley’s dedication to service is nothing short of inspiring. For over 30 years, he has exemplified selflessness in Queensland and beyond.

As a District Representative and Ambassador for ShelterBox Australia, Peter has raised over $250,000 to provide emergency shelter for families affected by disasters and conflicts worldwide. His outreach through school visits, community events, and Rotary presentations has motivated many to support humanitarian relief efforts.
Peter’s leadership extends to the Rotary Club of Redcliffe Sunrise, where he has served as President three times and is currently the Community Service Director. His initiatives include raising over $25,000 for breast cancer research and leading the Oyster Reef Restoration Project, which earned the 2025 ESRAG Oceania Enviro Award for the club.
As President of Meals on Wheels Redcliffe, Peter ensures vital services reach those in need. As Volunteer Treasurer for Bendigo Bank’s Redcliffe Peninsula Financial Services, he also supports essential community financial services.

Peter’s unwavering commitment and significant contributions have left an indelible mark on countless lives, making his dedication to service truly commendable.

John (Jack) Pool, who sadly passed away in March this year, left behind a lasting legacy and made significant contributions to the community. This posthumous recognition celebrates his remarkable impact.

Jack dedicated over three decades to Stafford Meals on Wheels, beginning as a delivery driver in 1998. His commitment saw him step into leadership roles, serving as Vice-President and President from 2001 to 2021, and later as Patron. Jack also contributed at the state level, serving as a Board Member of Meals on Wheels Queensland from 2011 to 2018.

His dedication was instrumental in securing much-needed repairs for the Stafford Meals on Wheels facility — a project that spanned nearly a decade. Even in his 90s, Jack remained actively involved, fostering a welcoming environment for volunteers and staff, and representing the organisation at community events and expos.

Jack’s exceptional service was recognised with the Westfield Local Heroes Award (2020) and the Mary Lowe Living Legend Award (2024). His legacy is a testament to compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Pamela Lane is a distinguished volunteer whose decades of service have profoundly shaped the Ipswich community. Since the late 1990s, she has been involved with Ipswich Hospice Care as Secretary and Chair of the Safety and Quality Committee, focusing on improving patient care through risk management policies.

As President of The Ipswich Club from 2013, she successfully navigated financial challenges, including the strategic sale of the clubhouse for sustainability. Her role on the Ipswich Hospital Foundation Board (1999–2018) involved leading health initiatives like free exercise programs and cardiac rehabilitation services.

Pamela has been a committed member of Zonta Ipswich since 1997, serving as President and Fundraising Chair for over 15 years, organizing events to support women escaping domestic violence and documenting the organization’s history through photography.
Her service also included the West Moreton Oxley Medicare Local Board (2013–2015) and the Lady Mayoress Committee (2005–2017), both focused on community health. In recognition of her contributions, she received the Senior Citizen of the Year Award in 2021.
Pamela Lane’s legacy reflects her unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of the Ipswich community.

Reg’s surf lifesaving journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Beginning in 1950 at the Ingham Surf Lifesaving Club, Reg has dedicated an incredible 75 years to serving the surf lifesaving community. Now 92, his passion and commitment remain as strong as ever.

Throughout his decades of involvement, Reg has played a vital role in developing lifesaving skills and coaching at both club and national levels. His mentorship has led to exceptional results, including coaching a national gold medallist for three consecutive years.

Reg’s contributions have earned him the highest honours: Life Membership of Surf Life Saving Queensland and Surf Life Saving Australia, and the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
His dedication extends beyond the beach—Reg has also spent more than 20 years fundraising for the Olympic Games, reflecting his deep commitment to sport and community.

Reg’s enduring legacy is one of leadership, generosity, and unwavering spirit, inspiring generations of lifesavers across Australia.

Rheanca is a co-founder and current co-president of the “We Are Not Alone” (WRNA) initiative, a youth-led project advocating for social connection, leadership, and representation for young people with disabilities in regional Australia. The concept for WRNA emerged at the ABC Heywire Youth Summit 2023, where Rheanca was one of 40 regional winners.

In 2024, Rheanca and her team successfully launched the inaugural “We Are Not Alone” day in Toowoomba, featuring guest speakers like
Dr. Dinesh Palipana OAM and Carly Findlay, alongside drama and advocacy workshops. The event focused on accessibility and collaborated with six organisations, including Headspace Toowoomba.

With support from grants by the Vincent Family Fairfax Foundation and the Foundation for Regional, Rural and Renewal, Rheanca’s team has continued their impactful work. They hosted a disability youth panel for Queensland Mental Health Week, took part in the Australian Association for Adolescent Health Youth Conference, and organized events in the Barossa Valley and Toowoomba.

Through WRNA, Rheanca has created a platform where young people with disabilities feel heard, seen, and empowered. Her leadership is building a stronger, more inclusive community.

Jess Hernandez is a dynamic community volunteer whose dedication has made a lasting impact. Since 2023, Jess has taken on a variety of roles in emergency services and youth leadership.

As a member of the Red Cross, Jess has been a reliable presence in times of disaster. In Scouts Queensland, she serves as the Child Safe Scouting Officer, ensuring a safe environment for all members. Jess is also the driving force behind the RoVenture Event and the Tours Manager for the Australian Contingent to the 16th World Moot in Portugal in 2025. As the Jamboree Unit Leader for the Australian Scout Jamboree in Maryborough, she leads with passion and purpose.

Her leadership extends to her role as Chairman of the Queensland Branch Rover Council, where she empowers young leaders. As the Under 30’s Representative to the National Adults in Scouting Committee, she champions the involvement of youth in decision-making.

Jess’s earlier roles, including volunteering for Safer Schoolies and Lutheran Youth Queensland Summer Camps, demonstrate her deep commitment to community service. Named Brisbane’s Young Citizen of the Year in 2025, Jess’s contributions have transformed lives, and her passion and leadership make her a true community champion.

Katie McCord is a dedicated volunteer whose passion for making a difference shines through in every role she takes on. Over the past two years, Katie has contributed to a wide range of initiatives in education, sport, community advocacy, and cultural engagement.

At the Southwest United Hockey Club, Katie began as Media Officer and quickly took on coaching and mentoring roles, helping young athletes build confidence and resilience. Her advocacy for child safety is evident in her work with the Bravehearts Youth Advisory Committee, focusing on consent education and policies that protect young people.

As a Global Youth Ambassador for Their World, Katie is committed to improving education worldwide. She also fosters student engagement and industry connections through her leadership at the QUT Business Club. Katie taught viola at the Australian International School Dubai, encouraging creativity and cross-cultural learning.

Katie founded and led the Behavioural Economics Club at QUT and worked as Community Liaison for Bundaberg State High School, empowering students through music workshops and mentoring. Recognised as Brisbane’s Young Citizen of the Year in 2025, Katie embodies giving back with heart, humility, and purpose.

Quinn Monaghan has been a dedicated volunteer with St John Ambulance Queensland since May 2023, contributing over 370 hours of service. As a Student Health Care Professional (HCP) Representative for Event Health Services, Quinn advocates for student HCP volunteers across the state. He led a statewide university O-Week recruitment campaign, significantly expanding the organisation’s reach.

Clinically, Quinn has excelled, with one standout moment during a mountain biking event. He and a colleague responded to a critical incident, saving a young man’s life and preventing permanent spinal injury, as confirmed by a neurosurgeon.

Quinn’s leadership and advocacy have had an immediate impact. His O-Week campaign engaged students across multiple campuses, boosting volunteer numbers and injecting fresh perspectives into the organisation. Through his enthusiasm and genuine care for others, Quinn has fostered a positive, inclusive culture within St John, supporting and motivating fellow volunteers.

Quinn exemplifies the future of healthcare volunteering. His clinical expertise, leadership, and humility make his contributions truly exemplary.

Mehvish arrived in Brisbane from India in early 2024 and has quickly made a meaningful impact through her diverse volunteer contributions.

At Volunteering Queensland, she has demonstrated exceptional versatility—supporting multiple teams and initiatives with professionalism and care. Her roles include helping the public find suitable volunteering opportunities, supporting volunteer-involving organisations, coordinating events, contributing to marketing content, improving internal data systems, and assisting the Training and Education Team with administrative tasks.

In addition to her work with Volunteering Queensland, Mehvish also volunteers with the Queensland Conservation Council, reflecting her strong commitment to community and environmental causes. Her efforts have helped connect people to meaningful opportunities and promoted the value of volunteering through campaigns and public events.

What sets Mehvish apart is her initiative, resilience, and curiosity. Despite being new to Australia, she actively sought ways to give back, learn, and build community connections. Her enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges have allowed her to expand her impact across multiple areas of work.

Mehvish’s story is a powerful example of how volunteering fosters personal growth and community connection. She is a valued contributor and an inspiring role model for other newly arrived migrants.

Bhawana began volunteering with You Belong Australia in mid-2024 and has quickly become one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and impactful members of the team. She first joined the Good Neighbour Initiative, a home-visits program supporting newly arrived refugee families in Toowoomba. With her warmth and empathy, Bhawana helps families feel seen, supported, and truly welcomed into the community.

She also volunteers with Cook to Connect, a weekly cooking initiative that brings refugee and local women together through food and friendship. Bhawana plays a vital role in creating a safe, joyful, and inclusive space—recently leading a session where she shared a meaningful dish from her hometown in Nepal.

Beyond these programs, Bhawana is a joyful presence at You Belong events, always ready to help with setup, guest engagement, and anything else needed—always with a smile. Her spirit of service, humility, and reliability has inspired both staff and fellow volunteers.

In late 2024, Bhawana became the Program Coordinator for the Good Neighbour Initiative, stepping confidently into a leadership role. A proud example of inclusive, grassroots leadership, Bhawana leads by example and shows that anyone—regardless of background—can build bridges, uplift others, and make a powerful difference.

Matthew’s commitment to the Hinterland Field Archers Club is nothing short of outstanding. As a volunteer archery coach, he shows up every week without fail to teach beginners the essentials of archery technique and safety. His reliability and dedication have been instrumental in the club’s growth and success.

Under Matthew’s guidance, the club has maintained a flawless safety record and become the largest 3DAAA club in Australia. His impact extends beyond coaching—he’s also played an active role in fundraising, helping to strengthen the club’s operations and community presence.

Originally from the UK, Matthew is a 36-year-old carpenter and now a proud permanent resident of Australia. Despite being here for less than three years, he has already become a trusted and valued member of both the club and the broader community. Known for his integrity and strong character, Matthew leads by example and embodies the spirit of volunteerism.

His contributions reflect not only skill and commitment, but a genuine dedication to building a safer, stronger, and more inclusive sporting community.

Cindel Richardson began her journey with the SES at just 12 years old as an Emergency Services Cadet in Orange and joined the Yeppoon SES Group at 16. Over two decades later, she remains a driving force in Queensland’s emergency services.

Cindel has contributed to major disaster responses across the state, including Cyclones Larry, Yasi, Marcia, and the 2022 Brisbane floods. Her leadership extends beyond the frontline—mentoring volunteers, raising over $60,000 for Yeppoon SES, and revitalising training and culture within the Cleveland Group.

Alongside her role as an Acting Inspector with the Queensland Police Service and raising three children, Cindel dedicates hundreds of hours each year to SES operations and training. She consistently supports member development, builds strong team culture, and leads with integrity and empathy.

Cindel has coordinated large-scale search and rescue operations, developed innovative training programs, and strengthened recruitment and retention. Her work builds not only capability, but also connection—fostering a sense of community and belonging among volunteers.

Gwen Bell is the heart of The Nest Community’s volunteer program. As Administration Manager, she has redefined inclusive, effective, and sustainable volunteer management in a grassroots organisation. Starting as a volunteer, Gwen now oversees a team of over 120, ensuring every volunteer feels valued and supported. She leads recruitment, onboarding, training, rostering, and policy development, creating systems from the ground up.

Under her leadership, The Nest transitioned from a home-based setup to a purpose-built 250-square-metre facility, welcoming 25,000 visits annually. Gwen coordinated this major move, supporting over 60–70 volunteers weekly across programs including the Haberdashery, Resource Recovery, and Workshops.

Gwen fosters a welcoming culture rooted in continuous learning, clear communication, and thoughtful recognition. Volunteers describe her as a “powerhouse,” “gem,” and “consummate professional,” praising her attention to detail and inclusive leadership. Her monthly newsletters, strong systems, and approachable style keep the team informed and engaged.

Pursuing a Certificate IV to formalise her skills, Gwen demonstrates her commitment to excellence. Her contributions have earned The Nest high commendation from Volunteering Queensland, positioning it as a model for best-practice volunteer programs. Gwen’s impact is enduring, expansive, and deeply human.

Kathryn, the 16th State Commissioner of Girl Guides Queensland, leads over 900 volunteers and champions a culture of volunteerism at all levels of leadership and governance. Through strategic oversight and board leadership, she ensures sustainable volunteer engagement and supports Regional Managers in child safety, property management, and data privacy.

Kathryn leads by example, serving as both State Commissioner and Unit Leader. She mentors volunteers, matches roles to individual strengths, and supports their growth to encourage long-term engagement. Her commitment to inclusive recruitment ensures the volunteer base reflects the diversity of the community, offering flexible participation models to suit all backgrounds.

She also oversees training in leadership, compliance, and child safety, providing volunteers with the skills and support they need. Kathryn reinforces a safe, respectful environment through strong policy enforcement and advocates for positive working relationships.

A strong believer in recognition, she has strengthened formal appreciation programs and consistently seeks to improve volnteer experiences. Under her leadership, around 3,000 young people have benefited from the empowering experiences Guiding provides.

Kathryn’s dedication to volunteer management and her ability to foster an inclusive, well-governed, and supportive culture make her an outstanding leader in Queensland and beyond.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Queensland is a volunteer-driven organization committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion within the construction industry. Their mission is to elevate women’s participation and career progression, contributing to a more equitable construction sector for all.

In 2024, the NAWIC Queensland achieved remarkable milestones, awarding over $20,000 in scholarships, supporting 200 participants in their mentoring program, and hosting 38 Women on Tools events across the state. The organisation also launched the Winners Circle and led advocacy efforts that resulted in crucial policy changes, including amendments to sexual harassment regulations and improved equitable facilities in construction.

Looking forward to 2025, NAWIC Queensland is set to establish a Women in Construction Council, tackle the ongoing resource shortage in the industry, and continue expanding their reach with new committees in Central Queensland and Wide Bay.

Celebrating 30 years of empowering women in construction, NAWIC Queensland stands as the leading advocate for gender diversity in the industry.

The City of Gold Coast’s Volunteering Collective Forum is an outstanding initiative led by the Community Programs team, building a stronger, more inclusive volunteering sector on the Gold Coast. The Forum provides a vital platform for volunteer managers and coordinators—both paid and unpaid—to connect, share insights, and learn from expert guest speakers.

A legacy of the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the Forum attracts 70–90 attendees per event and models best practices in inclusive language, cultural recognition, and diverse representation. It champions equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering meaningful cultural change.
Each Forum centres on a specific theme and showcases practical tools and workshops that organisations can apply immediately.

Initiatives such as the Gold Coast Volunteering Action Group and partnerships with the Mentoring 4 Growth Program demonstrate that the Forum is more than an event—it’s a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and long-term sector growth.

Community Flights is a volunteer-powered, community-funded initiative providing free flights to individuals in need—especially those in rural and remote parts of Queensland. The service enables people to access essential medical treatment, attend support services, and participate in critical community events that would otherwise be out of reach due to distance, cost, or limited transport options.

Since launching in 2022, Community Flights has completed 138 flights, supporting people with chronic illnesses, cancer, and other complex health needs. For many, this is a lifeline—ensuring they receive timely care and remain connected with loved ones.
What sets Community Flights apart is its ability to bridge geographic and financial barriers to healthcare. Operated entirely by volunteer pilots and ground support teams, it reflects true community spirit.

More than just transport, each flight is an act of compassion, dignity, and connection. Whether reuniting families, supporting mental well-being, or enabling life-saving treatment, Community Flights plays a vital and inspiring role in Queensland’s volunteer landscape.

Braking the Cycle is a volunteer driver mentor program supporting young people without access to a supervisor or registered vehicle. By matching learners with volunteer mentors, the program helps them gain logbook hours, pass their driving test, and become safer drivers.

Operating in 58 locations across Queensland, Braking the Cycle focuses on communities and youth in need. In 2023/24, over 600 volunteer mentors delivered 51,758 hours of driving to 3,036 participants, resulting in 915 new licences. This boosts employment prospects and community connection for young people.

Since 2012, the program has received awards including the Australian Road Safety Awards and Prince Michael International Road Safety Award. Mentors report positive experiences and personal fulfilment.

The program thrives on collaboration, bringing together PCYC clubs, local businesses, and government agencies. Evaluations show that graduates are safer drivers and better prepared for work. One such graduate is Fortuné, who passed his test in 2024 and now supports his family while pursuing education.

This Knitting English program began in 2010 when Save the Children called on Australians to knit blankets for children affected by the Haiti earthquake. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a vibrant, long-running volunteer initiative. The group now creates blankets, toys, beanies, and teddies for children impacted by natural disasters, poverty, domestic violence, and displacement — from refugee families and First Nations communities to baby penguins affected by oil spills.

At its heart, the program combines English conversation with knitting, creating a welcoming space where women from 26 different countries come together to practise language skills, build friendships, and support one another. It fosters cultural exchange, combats social isolation, and offers a strong sense of belonging for women from English as a Second Language backgrounds.

Over 15 years, the group has made a meaningful impact both locally and globally. Every item created is more than a handmade gift — it is a connection, a conversation, and an act of care shared across borders and communities.

The Youth Volunteering Program — a partnership between Mackay Regional Council, Volunteering Queensland, and Mackay State High School — engages students in meaningful volunteer roles within Council while they complete a Certificate II in Active Volunteering.
Through tailored placements and dedicated mentorship from Council staff, students gain practical experience, civic awareness, and QCE points in a safe and inclusive environment. The program places a strong emphasis on cultural inclusion, with First Nations students mentored by First Nations staff to ensure cultural safety, representation, and connection.

Participants consistently report increased confidence, improved communication skills, and a deeper understanding of volunteering. Many are inspired to continue their volunteering journey beyond the program. Council staff have commended the students’ professionalism and dedication, recognising them as emerging leaders in the community.

With a scalable and forward-thinking model that embeds volunteering into education, the program addresses key barriers to youth participation and helps build Mackay’s future volunteer workforce.

Kimberly has made an immense impact on Special Olympics Mackay Fire and Special Olympics Queensland. She joined as chair in 2014 and transitioned to mentor and Special Olympics Queensland chair in 2023. Kimberly has expanded powerlifting to three states, introduced table tennis and bocce to Mackay Fire, and established relationships with local businesses for sponsorships and fundraising, securing over $10,000 since the start of the Containers for Change program.

Kimberly’s advocacy has been key in preventing a proposed accreditation fee for athletes, which would have significantly impacted local fundraising. Her dedication to inclusion is evident through her work with Kung Fu Wushu Qld, offering virtual Kung Fu Form and Tai Chi sessions.

Kimberly’s leadership extends beyond local efforts—she organised a performance at the World Down Syndrome Congress in Brisbane and facilitated sports events to promote inclusion and awareness. Her positive attitude and tireless commitment make her a true community leader.

Jamie Mann-Farrar is the Clinical Systems Lead for St John Ambulance Queensland’s Event Health Services. In this volunteer role, he plays a key part in improving clinical systems, developing governance frameworks, and ensuring that both volunteers and healthcare professionals are equipped to deliver high-quality care during events.

In 2024, Jamie dedicated over 650 hours to revitalising Event Health Services, re-establishing a strong clinical presence at public events across Queensland. His efforts have significantly enhanced community safety by providing timely medical support and easing the strain on emergency services.

Jamie’s involvement with St John Ambulance dates back to 2002, where he served in various roles until 2006. His expertise in health services for large gatherings was further showcased in 2024 when he presented at the 2nd Western Pacific Mass Gathering Events and Health Symposium.

Through his leadership, Jamie has empowered volunteers with clear protocols and comprehensive training, improving the quality of care provided. His dedication highlights the crucial role of volunteers in strengthening community health and emergency services.

Megha is a distinguished Geospatial Science Professional, Architect, and Environmental Planner, as well as a dedicated performing artist. For over 20 years, she has generously contributed more than 20 hours each week to volunteer roles across community leadership, cultural events, mental well-being programs, and fundraising.

As Secretary and later President of the QACI P&C Association, Megha played a pivotal role in revitalising the organisation. She secured $35,000 in grants, grew financial reserves to nearly $10,000, and established a strong network of over 50 active parent volunteers. Her leadership introduced digital systems, streamlined communication, and strengthened school-wide engagement.

Her achievements include reactivating dormant funding channels, supporting creative arts initiatives, and advocating for student opportunities through international study tours and award sponsorships. Through inclusive and forward-thinking leadership, Megha has fostered a connected, vibrant school community—leaving a lasting legacy of innovation, collaboration, and growth.

Sally Gregory has made a profound impact on the environment through her efforts to remove marine debris, fishing gear, and plastic waste from Tallebudgera Creek. She goes beyond clean-up, rescuing marine life by untangling rubbish from turtles, birds, and fish, ensuring their safety and survival.

Sally has also played a key role in educating and training the local community to protect our ecosystems and safeguard the world’s oceans for future generations. Through her photography and documentation of species in Tallebudgera Creek, she contributes to the vital conservation of this fragile ecosystem.

Under Sally’s leadership, the Tallebudgera Creek Clean-up Crew has grown into a committed team of Queensland divers and local residents actively working to protect the waterway. Since 2020, she has led the first long-term, systematic underwater clean-up in the region, removing over 59,000 fishing lines and large amounts of debris.
Sally’s social media presence has helped unite the Burleigh and Palm Beach communities in protecting our waterways. Let’s celebrate her exceptional contribution to environmental conservation and community action.

Shannon Mead is a passionate and dedicated volunteer whose impact spans the arts, sports, and environmental advocacy. After more than a decade in community theatre, Shannon moved to Queensland in 2020 and founded the environmental charity No More Butts. As volunteer Executive Director, he leads a team of 12 and contributes over 1,500 hours annually to tackling cigarette and vaping litter across Australia.

Shannon’s work has supported clean-up events in partnership with Sea Shepherd, removing tens of thousands of cigarette butts from the environment. He also serves as Chair of Boomerang Alliance and is a member of Queensland Environment Leaders.

Beyond No More Butts, Shannon has volunteered with Smart Pups, Digital Inclusion North Queensland, and AFL Cairns Umpires Association, where he’s held multiple leadership roles.

Shannon’s commitment, collaboration, and innovation continue to inspire others and drive meaningful change across Queensland communities.

Annette holds a record of sustained and impactful contribution to volunteering over a period of thirty plus years within the Cairns region. She has made a lasting and positive impact on the community, the younger generation, her team and has inspired and influenced many others to engage in volunteering.

Annette has given generously of her time and expertise across her career and now into her retirement. She has been a volunteer Board member for Far North Qld Volunteers since 1999 – giving generously of her time and advocating strongly to support and grow volunteering across the Cairns region. In 2010 she became President and has been key in shaping the strategic direction of the organisation, including being the driver of significant change in the business and raising volunteering awareness and activity across the Cairns community.

On top of this Annette then took on the full-time role as Manager of the organisation – as a volunteer – when funding was cut to all Volunteer Resource Centres and the ability of FNQ Volunteers to continue to deliver services was in doubt. She has worked tirelessly to apply for grants and implement new programs to keep the doors open, keep volunteer services alive in the community and to rebuild the organisation to create a stable, professional and well-respected local volunteering service.

On top of her other volunteering roles over the years, Annette is now also a volunteer visitor within the highly successful Aged Care Volunteering Visitor service that she has established and maintained as a major service under FNQ Volunteers. And when other volunteers don’t turn up, Annette pitches in to complete their shift.

Her leadership has been supported by her persistence, perseverance, patience, strength and valuable sector knowledge. She has played a pivotal role in fostering community development and social inclusivity. Annette’s sheer tenacity and determination is the only reason that FNQ Volunteers has survived to this day and why the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme has become a great success story in FNQ.

She’s a hard woman to say no to.
Annette always has a solution or is working towards one with positivity, optimism and generosity.