Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

The Gap Ward Brisbane City Councillor Steve Toomey; Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Ms Petrina Fraccaro; Board Members; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; girls and boys. 

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of these lands, extending respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.

Kaye and I warmly welcome you to Government House this afternoon as we celebrate the tremendous efforts of those who have supported Cystic Fibrosis Queensland during its 60 years of operation.

Given that COVID-19 derailed both the “65 Roses” month in May and your Diamond Jubilee event in June, I am delighted we now have the opportunity to acknowledge your wonderful contributions.   

From its humble beginnings in a church hall in Annerley in 1960, Cystic Fibrosis Queensland has grown to become a vital help-line to sufferers of this chronic illness and their families across the State, and beyond.

It is an organisation that is built on the determination and enduring optimism of its people – the employees, donors, volunteers and supporters – who work so hard to ease the lives of those affected by this complex, life-limiting disease, which from birth necessitates such a relentless, and exhausting treatment regime. 

Cystic Fibrosis Queensland is a leader, a fighter, an innovator and above all a much needed ally.

This year, aside from upsetting planned events, the coronavirus pandemic brought with it considerable challenges for the organisation and for those you help.

The risk this new virus poses to people already coping with the effects of reduced lung function, makes your rallying call to “join the fight to breathe” even more imperative.

While COVID-19 has heightened our awareness of the stringent measures we all need to take to keep us safe from infection, it is but a small insight into the everyday reality of a life affected by cystic fibrosis.

I can only imagine how difficult and isolating this additional threat has been. 

Yet I know that you would prefer to focus on solutions rather than problems, regardless of how challenging these may be. 

Over the years, your efforts to fund research have seen a determined positive shift in outcomes and treatment. You provide much-needed, life-enhancing equipment.

As a tireless advocate, you are committed to raising awareness, particularly when this disease is outwardly invisible, yet remains this country’s most common life-threatening genetic condition.  

We may not yet have discovered a cure, but through your efforts you deliver hope, and that is one of the most precious gifts of all.

When you look back at your 60-year track-record, there is much to be proud of. I know Cystic Fibrosis Queensland will continue as it began, leading the way, and being a true champion.

Indeed, while the disease itself may be unpredictable, I know that the commitment of those fighting it remains unshakeable, and on behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank you for your dedication.