Reception in support of Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

Haemophilia Foundation Queensland President, Mr Shannon Wandmaker and Members of the Board; Foundation Members and supporters; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this evening.

I am delighted to welcome you to Government House on a very special evening to discuss a very important cause.

Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month provides us with an opportunity to talk about issues that resonate deeply with the many Queenslanders living with this condition.

I must say this year’s theme of ‘New Possibilities’ brings with it a feeling of hope, and of optimism!

During the month, we will hear from those who live with bleeding disorders through their personal stories.

We will hear about advances in gene therapy for haemophilia and see many myths about bleeding disorders busted.

We will also witness events being held in schools, workplaces and public spaces around the State, to help highlight — and, to a degree, normalise — the topic of bleeding disorders. These include red-themed morning teas, colouring-in competitions, scavenger hunts, dress-in-red days, and pop-up stalls selling red cupcakes.

And you may have noticed on your way in, that Government House is bathed in a glorious shade of red tonight in support of your awareness-raising efforts.

As Patron of Haemophilia Foundation Queensland, I am always eager to highlight the work you do on behalf of the many thousands of people in Australia who have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder and who require medical and lifestyle support to manage their condition.

Your dedication and hard work helps to ensure that people diagnosed with a bleeding disorder receive the quality care and latest treatments they so rightly deserve.

We will honour one person in particular tonight, who over a long period has given so much to the bleeding disorders community – but more on that shortly!

They are one of many dedicated people focussed on positive outcomes and better futures for haemophilia sufferers and those with von Willebrand disease, or any other form of bleeding disease.

Congratulations to Haemophilia Foundation Queensland Board, staff, members and volunteers on your continued passion and commitment – your ongoing efforts are truly making a positive difference for all Queenslanders experiencing bleeding disorders and I am proud to be your Patron.