Thank You, Anne
Anne's presidency has been defined by quiet, authentic leadership. She acted with humility, helped steer the ship through a period of significant growth and change, and consistently brought people together through her unwavering belief in collaboration. Whether working alongside the Board, our members, staff or national stakeholders, Anne understood that the best outcomes are achieved when people work together towards a common purpose.
Throughout her term, Anne provided exceptional leadership during a period of significant opportunity for cancer care in Australia. Her collaborative approach was evident through the strong relationships she built across the sector, particularly during the implementation of the Australian Cancer Plan and the establishment of the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program.
As a trusted adviser to Cancer Australia through its Implementation and Coordination Advisory Group (ICAG), and as the cancer nursing representative on the Expert Advisory Group for the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program, Anne ensured the voice of cancer nurses was heard, respected and embedded in national reform. She represented the profession with credibility, compassion and quiet confidence, earning the respect of colleagues across government, healthcare and the broader cancer sector.
Looking back to Anne's first interview as President in 2023, her vision for the profession was already clear.
"I want cancer nurses to be at every table that is examining cancer care and control. Across the country, I think it's really important that we actually have a voice out there in all things related to cancer."
Over the past three years, Anne has helped make that vision a reality. Cancer nurses have never had a stronger national voice, with CNSA playing a central role in shaping policy, influencing national reform and advocating for the profession at every opportunity.
Closer to home, Anne's leadership has helped guide CNSA through a period of extraordinary growth and achievement. Membership has continued to grow, advocacy has expanded, education has flourished, and landmark initiatives including the Australian Cancer Nursing Capability Framework and the National Cancer Nurse Education Portal have positioned the profession strongly for the future. Anne was also passionate about recognising the extraordinary contribution of cancer nurses, proudly championing the establishment of Cancer Nurses Day as an annual celebration of the expertise, compassion and impact of cancer nurses across Australia.
While these achievements reflect the work of many dedicated volunteers, members and staff, Anne's steady leadership, thoughtful counsel and ability to bring people together have been instrumental in making them possible. She has devoted an incredible amount of time, energy and heart to the role, always placing the interests of CNSA, its members and the profession above her own.
Incoming President Professor Gemma McErlean reflected on Anne's contribution to the Board and the organisation.
Anne has led CNSA with remarkable humility, wisdom and integrity. She has always understood that the role of President is about enabling others, building consensus and ensuring every decision is guided by what is best for our members and for people affected by cancer. On behalf of the Board, I thank Anne for the extraordinary leadership she has provided over the past three years. Her influence on this organisation will be felt for many years to come, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be following in her footsteps.
CNSA Chief Executive Officer Jemma Still said it had been a privilege to work alongside Anne throughout her presidency.
Anne has been an incredible support to both me and our team over the past three years. She has devoted countless hours to CNSA, always making herself available to provide guidance, celebrate successes and work through challenges with genuine care and generosity. She never sought recognition for the work she did behind the scenes, yet her commitment has shaped this organisation in so many ways. Anne leaves CNSA stronger than she found it, and I am incredibly grateful for everything she has given to our members, our team, and to me personally as I grew in this leadership role.
Anne often reminded us that meaningful progress is built through relationships, trust and collaboration. It is a philosophy she has lived every day as President.
On behalf of the Board, our members, volunteers, staff and partners, thank you, Anne. Your leadership has strengthened our organisation, your generosity has inspired those around you, and your legacy will continue to shape cancer nursing in Australia for many years to come.