President
I arrived in Cairns at age five and have lived in Far North QLD for most of my life.
After attending Machans Beach, Good Counsel and St. Monica’s College, I trained at the old Cairns Base Hospital and built a lifelong healthcare career focused on preventative, complementary and primary care, with particular interests in nutrition, mental health and spectrum-related disorders. I facilitated workshops which helped people make healthier food choices and maintain strength and flexibility as they age.
Elected to Mulgrave Shire Council in 1991, I represented the community for 17 years through amalgamation, technological change and rapid population growth.
I have been involved with FNQ Volunteers since its inception, becoming President in 2010, and in 2023 helped introduce the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme now with 106 places. Far from slowing down in retirement, I remain actively engaged with volunteering, community and friends.
Treasurer
I am a retired accountant with a Bachelor of Business from James Cook University. Originally from Victoria, my wife and I moved to Cairns 35 years ago and built strong connections within the community.
Throughout my career, I gained experience in financial management, strategic planning and governance, particularly in local government, health and public accounting. Operating my own business also gave me firsthand insight into the challenges and needs of local enterprises. In retirement, I remain actively involved in community service through volunteer and leadership roles.
I currently serve as Treasurer on the FNQ Volunteers Inc board and as a member of another not-for-profit board. I believe volunteering is vital because it strengthens communities, brings people together and enables us to share our skills and experience for others’ benefit.
I am proud to contribute my professional knowledge, time and commitment to organisations creating lasting change in our community.
Program Coordinator
I am a Program Coordinator with 26 years’ experience in aged care, disability services and community support.
My career began at 17, supporting people to build confidence, exercise choice and live independently.
Before relocating, I ran a disability services company in Adelaide for four years, strengthening my commitment to respectful, person-centred support.
I moved to Far North Queensland just over three years ago, seeking a quieter lifestyle and embracing its strong community spirit.
Today, I support volunteers and champion recognition of the time, knowledge and kindness they contribute to our communities.
Outside work, I have two children and share my home with a dachshund, a cat and a scrub python.
Whether I’m supporting someone, working in the community or cheering on our volunteers, people are always at the heart of what I do. I truly believe everyone has something special to offer.
Since its inception in 1999, FNQ Volunteers Inc. has been a dedicated force in meeting the evolving needs of our community. As the primary agency for volunteering in the Far North Region, we have played a pivotal role in fostering community development and social inclusivity throughout the Far North Queensland area. This has been achieved through the implementation of community participation initiatives and comprehensive volunteer involvement services.
Our offerings encompass a spectrum of services including volunteer training, education, advocacy, community development, and volunteer referrals, benefiting a diverse array of community and non-profit member organizations across the region.
In addition to our direct services, FNQ Volunteers takes a leadership role in elevating the prominence of volunteering within the not-for-profit sector. We aim to cultivate an inclusive and thriving community.
FNQ Volunteers Inc. operates as an Incorporated Association under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981. Our incorporation was established on May 23, 2002, bearing the Incorporation Number IA31139. The Constitution was adopted during a board meeting on April 9, 2002, with subsequent amendments made on December 3, 2004.
A dedicated Volunteer Board of Management guides FNQ Volunteers Inc., convening monthly to set the strategic course for the organisation.
Our Strategic Plan outlines the expectations and commitments of the FNQ Volunteers Inc. Board and Staff. It serves as a guiding framework, articulating key objectives and goals, all within the context of community development and rooted in a set of guiding principles.
The operational team of FNQ Volunteers Inc. is led by our VMA Program Coordinator and ACVVS Coordinator, supported by volunteers who hold key positions across all facets of our organisation.
Today, we proudly list over 200 voluntary positions throughout the year, partnering with more than 100 registered agencies. Our opportunities span a wide range, from administrative roles like data entry and receptionists to cooking for day respite centres, shopping for the elderly and people with disabilities, reading to children, fundraising, and beyond. We’re involved in various activities, from planting trees to organising exhibitions, greeting tourists, assisting newcomers to Australia, and much more.
FNQ Volunteers Inc. spans from Mission Beach/Tully to Mossman and Ravenshoe, collaborating for services in Cape York. Our community thrives on diversity, welcoming international students seeking to immerse themselves in Australian community life.
Our members represent a rich tapestry of community organisations. From health and childcare to arts, environment, youth, and animal welfare, every prospective volunteer is carefully matched to skills and interests.
Beyond community service, volunteering yields personal and professional growth. On average, 35% of volunteers transition to paid employment, making it an invaluable path for skill-building and networking.
FNQ Volunteers Inc. extends heartfelt thanks to all levels of government, the corporate sector, and local businesses for their support. Together, we’ve elevated the profile of volunteering across Far North Queensland, making a lasting impact on our community.