Reception in support of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month 2024

Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Executive Chair, Ms Margaret Walker and CEO, Ms Petrina Fraccaro, staff, supporters and volunteers; 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 today.

Graeme and I welcome you all to Government House this evening to honour an organisation that does so much to help people in this State who are living with cystic fibrosis.

As Patron-in-Chief of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland, I know that May is an important month—with the annual 65 Roses Challenge encouraging Queenslanders to support the activities, services and research that so significantly improve outcomes for those who have inherited this complex, life-limiting genetic condition.

With 90 per cent of the organisation’s income relying on the generosity of donors, building greater awareness through fundraising is as essential as it is challenging, yet this story is also one of incredible hope.

The past 30 years or so have seen a dramatic increase in life-expectancy for those diagnosed, as new drugs, gene therapies and medical treatments have innovated the approach to long-term care.

Where once cystic fibrosis was considered a childhood disease, this is now no longer the case, and I am so proud of the phenomenal inroads made through medical research, that have made this possible.

I therefore take this moment to acknowledge all of the amazing people in this room who have contributed to this advancement, and who are striving towards a cure. I also applaud the doctors and nurses here this evening, who represent a level of care in our hospitals that is truly exceptional.

Yet, while this disease exists, we need the determination, commitment and unwavering optimism of many—including the remarkable members of the Community Advisory Committee—who add their valuable personal insight and lived experiences to programs, services and research goals.

Cystic Fibrosis Queensland continues to forge the path towards a better future, advocating hard for those it serves, while remaining deeply committed to delivering a wide range of practical services for the entire cystic fibrosis community.

…And the beautiful rose, as a symbol of love—and so deeply connected with the origin story of the organisation itself—represents the compassion and thoughtfulness that have underpinned Cystic Fibrosis Queensland’s mission since its beginnings, 64 years ago.

I therefore commend the Board, staff and all members of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland for your passion and drive, and for fighting so hard for a brighter future—not just for those living with this condition, but for their families and friends also.

And I thank the many wonderful supporters—the donors, volunteers and sponsors—who serve Cystic Fibrosis Queensland with such generosity. This life-changing work simply could not happen without you, and I encourage all Queenslanders to follow your lead and take up the 65 Roses Challenge.

Thank you.