Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and RBWH Foundation 2016 Research Grant Awards and Support Recognition Ceremony

I thank the Chief Executive, Mr Treseder, for the invitation to join you for the second successive year for the presentation of these vitally important awards.

I am very honoured to be associated with “The Royal”, particularly as Patron of its highly beneficial charity arm, the RBWH Foundation.

Since its inception in 1985, the Foundation has played a major role in improving health outcomes for Queenslanders, indeed for humankind.  

Not only does the Foundation ensure our health professionals can achieve optimal patient outcomes through enhanced resourcing, but also crucially, through initiatives like today’s awards, the Foundation fosters a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, through the deeper insights research provides. 

Reassuringly, the Research Initiative Grants I will shortly present, alongside the other award categories, support research across a broad spectrum of disciplines – neonatology and perinatal care, cardiology, intensive care, oncology, general patient care, and professional development.

This mix of expertise is a microcosm of Queensland’s broader dynamic research capability, and I am pleased to note Professor Gannon’s presence today. Cooperation and collaboration will always ensure better outcomes.

I am also proud to be associated with this Hospital and Foundation as your Governor.

In this capacity my remit extends very much to supporting aspects of our society which bind and uplift us.

I am conscious that, as medical professionals, you deal daily not just in healing and rehabilitation, but also in grief and trauma.   

In all of this, you are dedicated to constructively applying your capacities for the public good.

This is indeed inspiring, remarkable, and I am very proud to support your professional endeavours, research and otherwise.

I want also to acknowledge the role the Foundation plays in linking the Hospital to the wider community.

Despite governmental efforts, research relies very much on community support.

On behalf of Queenslanders, I thank the many individuals and organisations who contributed to the Foundation’s impressive fundraising successes.

That generosity is to be applauded, and ensures the recipients of today’s awards will form part of the Foundation’s proud and enduring legacy.

Finally, I once again publicly thank the Foundation’s Chair, Board members and staff.

I am very proud to champion your work, it is a great source of pride to our State.