Statements of support
“It is an honour to provide this statement of support for the QNMU Members United Leadership team standing for our 2025 union elections.
I have worked with members of this team over many years, some for decades, and I can attest to their steadfast commitment to advancing nursing and midwifery and ensuring our professions are able to deliver safe and high-quality care to our community. They are also passionate about building a fair, inclusive and safe society that is so central to supporting the provision of health care for all based on need and not capacity to pay.
Sarah, Grant, Ashleigh, Simon and Lucynda all started their union journey as workplace activists. They are doers who have the courage to stand up and speak out. They know what is important to members and are focused on delivering outcomes together.
Most importantly, they are driven to advance collective objectives, not personal ambitions. It is not about them - it is all about members. Finding ways to work with others to solve problems and advance shared interests. They are focused on working through different views to bring about fair, reasonable and enduring outcomes.
This is hard work, especially when times are uncertain and volatile like they are now. I have seen first-hand their ability to play the long game by remaining focused, disciplined and strategic. They have achieved many great outcomes but know there is still so much more to do. Our job is never done.
This team is united in their purpose and values. They know what they believe in and why. Each bring diverse skills, experience and perspectives to the team and complement each other well.
They are the right team for these times and I will be voting for them in the upcoming election.”
— Beth Mohle (QNMU Secretary 2011-2023)
“I am proud to stand behind the exceptional QNMU Members United leadership team whose individual strength, experience, and dedication to grassroots activism have been truly transformative to the QNMU. Experienced elected officials; they exemplify what it means to lead with both vision and action, inspiring unity and progress every step of the way.
This team’s vast experience has been a cornerstone of their leadership, allowing them to navigate challenges with skill and foresight. Their deep roots in member organising, job representation, professional experience are evident in their approach, always prioritising the voices of the members and championing the values that unite us all.
With a shared vision for a brighter, equitable, fair and advancing future for the nursing and midwifery professions, the team has worked tirelessly to foster solidarity and a sense of togetherness to drive forward meaningful change.
Under their guidance, the union has become stronger, remains united, and more impactful than ever before. Their commitment to collective success and their ability to galvanize members around shared goals make them not only exceptional leaders, but also true advocates for our professions, for unity and progress.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“In support of Suri Hobday’s candidacy for QNMU council, Suri has been an invaluable colleague, support person, union and legal resource person, and most of all a caretaker or my rights in difficult times in the workplace.
During my time working with Suri, I needed support on many levels. I was subject to psychosocial hazards which took their toll on my mental wellbeing. Suri supported me through this time, her humility, respect and care was invaluable, she stood by me at every turn and her advocacy and guidance was literally lifesaving.
Suri is totally dedicated to QNMU and making workplaces healthy and equitable for the worker. Her proactive influence, advocacy and knowledge to provide the most current industrial information is paramount. She is always available to the members of the QNMU and all workers that she meets. I witnessed her strategic actions when she raised concerns for workers psychological safety at relevant consultative forums. When improvements stalled, she submitted a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) initiating accountability and consultation to conduct Psychosocial Safety Risk assessment to improve workers safety.
Suris integrity, compassion, accountability and respect are forefront in everything she does as a QNMU representative, a Workplace Health and Safety Representative, a Clinical Nurse Consultant, and a Colleague. Her positivity, authenticity, determination and innate leadership qualities make her an excellent candidate for QNMU Council.”
— Janet O’Donnell
“I have had the pleasure of working with Sarah in many roles during her time at the QNMU, from grass roots organiser to Secretary. Over that time, with each new role, she has demonstrated courage, tenacity, diligence and integrity in her interactions with all those with whom she conducts the work of the Union. She has a strong sense of professional identity, never losing her understanding of the lived experience of front line nurses, nor does she dismiss the challenges that formal nursing executive roles present. With her innate ability to build trusting relationships, and her interest based approach to resolving matters, Sarah is more than ready to lead the QNMU in these current volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous times. I strongly endorse Sarah as the candidate for Secretary of the QNMU as I believe she will bring the strength, determination, strategic intention and action required to continue to grow the QNMU and deliver for members each and every day.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“I am truly honoured to support Ashleigh’s nomination to be the QNMU’s first midwifery Assistant Secretary. She has unwavering passion, dedication, and service as a midwife and a staunch advocate for collectivism. Her profound commitment to her profession and to the union has left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.
As a midwife, Ashleigh exemplifies compassionate care and unyielding advocacy for the families she serves but also the union and its members. She understands deeply that the strength of a community lies in its ability to support one another, and she extends this belief seamlessly into her union service.
Already an experienced QNMU Councillor and member advocate, Ashleigh truly stands as a shining example of what it means to be a union leader with heart, integrity, and dedication to collective success.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“It is with great admiration that I write about Grant, whose service as the QNMU Assistant Secretary exemplifies the core values of collectivism, practicality, and the pursuit of shared interests.
Grant is a steadfast champion of unity, always placing the collective good above individual agendas. His deep understanding of union values has fostered an environment where collaboration thrives, he has a remarkable ability to bring people together, ensuring that everyone's voices are heard and aligned towards common goals.
With a foundation of common sense, Grant’s practical mindset has been instrumental in guiding the union through complex situations and ensuring that decisions are both thoughtful and effective.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“I have had the immense privilege of knowing Simon in our shared union work with the QNMU for many years, and I can confidently say that he embodies the very essence of union values, exceptional leadership, and profound wisdom. His unwavering commitment to fairness, solidarity, and justice has not only strengthened the bonds within the nursing and midwifery community and union movement, but has also inspired countless individuals to stand together for what is right.
Simon has demonstrated his union leadership skills on Council, as Chair of the QNMU Policy Committee, on union recruitment panels and advisory groups, as an ACTU Organiser and ground level activist bringing an ability to find common ground and shared interests to get great outcomes for the union movement, our union and for our professions. His ability to navigate complex challenges with foresight and honesty demonstrates a wisdom that is both intuitive and cultivated through experience.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“I have had the privilege of working closely with our Nurse Unit Manager Janelle Taylor since 2018 and have witnessed firsthand her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to the nursing profession and tireless advocacy for the nurses she leads.
Janelle has always been a strong, compassionate leader who consistently demonstrates a passion for creating positive change and advocating for better conditions within our workplace. She takes the time to understand the concerns of others and works hard to offer thoughtful and strategic solutions. This approach has earned Janelle the respect and trust of her colleagues, and I have no doubt that she will continue to represent our interests effectively and with integrity if she is successful in her candidacy as a QNMU councillor.
I am confident that Janelle’s leadership and dedication will continue to make a significant positive impact within the nursing union and broader nursing workforce, and she has my wholehearted support in this endeavour.”
— Amelia Elliott, CN, TPCH
“I have know Karla Orellana for approximately seven years during which time I have periodically worked very closely with Karla in our nursing role. I have always found Karla to be a kind and compassionate person who most importantly will stand up for justice and fairness for her colleagues and patients alike. She has strong leadership qualities, and I sincerely endorse her as an excellent candidate for the role of Councillor with QNMU.”
— Mary Batch
“Having our QNMU vice president living and working in far North Queensland is empowering for all nurses who live and work in a remote or regional location.
We have a voice. We can be heard.
Lucynda understands the unique challenges and skills we need to thrive in remote locations. We are represented and understood and our unique needs and issues are communicated at the highest level of our union.
Lucynda’s enthusiasm for working remotely and for the QNMU is inspiring and she is a strong voice for all nurses living and working outside the major centres.”
— Tanya Sorrell, Mental Health Nurse, Cooktown
“For the 23 years I have worked at Townsville I have witnessed Jo’s passion and activism for Queensland nurses and midwives. Jo goes above and beyond what is expected of a QNMU delegate, to proactively and creatively support nurses and midwives to engage with the Union. Jo demonstrates the values of the QNMU every day. I value her knowledge, compassion, exceptional leadership and communication skills and fearsome advocacy for nurses and midwives, and support her nomination to be a QNMU Councillor.”
— Dr Wendy Smyth, OAM
“Jo Konings is an extremely professional and dedicated person who goes above and beyond to provide support, guidance and advice in all matters related to the union and the rights of workers within healthcare. Jo works tirelessly in representing others with an extensive knowledge of union related issues and information. This knowledge is always up to date and current across the vast healthcare spectrum. Jo will be the ideal advocate and representative as a councillor supporting the rights and interests of all involved. I have known Jo for many years and not think of a more respected and ideal candidate for the position of councillor. ”
— Paula Pianta, CN, Ingham
“Lucynda has dedicated her life to nursing! She has proven her dedication through her long term role as a hands on nurse in Cape York for the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.
Lucynda has been a nursing mentor for many new and junior nurses, including myself. We have worked together in various roles, and I have seen first-hand how she advocates for her patients as well as her colleagues.
Lucynda is a passionate and experienced nurse, she is a dependable colleague who will continue to stand for safe patient and nursing environments.”
— Jessica Stecko, Nurse Practitioner, Weipa
“I wish to provide a testimonial for Junita Konings who is currently a QNMU delegate/rep for ICU in Townsville. I have known and worked with Jo for the past 12 years.
Jo is truly passionate in her efforts to support all QNMU members within the ICU at Townsville. She is always available to give advice and support to her colleagues regarding workloads, BPF, and other union/work related issues brought to her attention. She does this with passion and also with the utmost confidentiality.
Jo continually shows she is passionate about BPF, and meets regularly, and raises concerns about BPF’s to champion the cause for Townsville Hospital Health Service Nurses and Midwives.
Jo is not shy in raising her concerns regarding union related matters, such as workloads. This is always done in a manner to ensure safety to patients and nurses/midwives. Even when managers give push back to her when raising concerns, Jo does not give up- and with great respect, continues to battle through.
I have previously spoken to Jo regarding multiple issues within our ICU, and feel she has listened to my issues, given me great advice, including the escalation pathways.
I would be most proud to recommend Jo to be a Councillor as she is very passionate in all things QNMU related, with a great breadth of knowledge for all things QNMU related.”
— Meagan Baldwin
“I am honoured to share my heartfelt admiration and support for Lucynda, an extraordinary union activist and nursing professional whose leadership in the QNMU Vice President role, and previous Councillor roles is defined by her compassion, humility, steadfastness, and unwavering commitment.
Throughout her tenure as QNMU Vice President, Lucynda has been a true advocate for equity and fairness, consistently placing the needs and well-being of all nurses, midwives and care workers, the union movement and our union at the forefront of her activism and actions. Her compassion resonates deeply with those she serves, creating a sense of trust and unity that strengthens the foundation of our QNMU community.
What stands out most about Lucynda is her humility. She is approachable and grounded, always valuing the input of every member. This quality has allowed Lucynda to foster a collaborative spirit, where all voices are heard and respected.”
— Sally-Anne Jones (QNMU President 2009-2025)
“I am writing to express my strong support for JoJoe in their application for the position of QNMU First Nations South Councillor. I have known JoJoe for several years through my work as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurse Navigator in Metro South health. I have witnessed firsthand her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
JoJoe has been an effective, consistent, and a supportive leader as a member and delegate of our QNMU First Nations Statewide Branch. JoJoe is always willing to listen to all voices at the table.
JoJoe is a passionate advocate for First Nations health and workforce equity. Her ability to engage with community members, health professionals, and stakeholders ensures that culturally safe and person-centered care remains a priority. Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by First Nations nurses and midwives, combined with her strong leadership skills, makes her an ideal candidate for this role.
Throughout JoJoe’s career she has demonstrated exceptional skills in advocacy, mentorship, and policy engagement. She has actively contributed to initiatives that promote workforce development, cultural competency, and improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Her ability to navigate complex healthcare environments while maintaining a strong cultural lens sets her apart as a leader within the profession.
Furthermore, JoJoe is deeply respected within our community and among colleagues for her integrity, compassion, and ability to foster meaningful relationships. JoJoe brings a wealth of experience and insight that will undoubtedly benefit the QNMU Council and its mission to support and empower First Nations nurses and midwives.
I wholeheartedly endorse JoJoe for this position and have no doubt that her contributions will be invaluable to the QNMU and the broader healthcare sector.”
— Kazandra Perkins (Quandamooka), Nurse Navigator
“Ashleigh is a passionate midwife and nurse activist who has fearlessly campaigned for the delivery of high-quality services for our diverse community.
When I worked with Ashleigh on our Council it was so refreshing to hear the new ideas she brought to our debates. She is so energetic and brings the perspective of younger members to the deliberations of our Council.
Ashleigh has worked in a wide variety of locations across sectors in a variety of locations across Queensland. I am struck by how skilfully she built her knowledge and expertise from each experience, taking lessons from each challenge confronted. She is tenacious and knows that we need to have the evidence to win an argument and also that we need to maintain perspective and persevere in the face of disappointment.
She is particularly passionate about ensuring the advancement of continuity of care midwifery models and promoting the evidence of the high-quality outcomes such models achieve. Ashleigh has communicated this so well before politicians, decision makers and in the media. She is not afraid to speak truth to power, and to do so publicly.
Ashleigh brings energy, commitment and a fresh perspective to all she confronts. I will be voting for her as Assistant Secretary and strongly recommend members do likewise.”
— Beth Mohle (QNMU Secretary 2011 - 2022)
““I have worked alongside Meg and under her supervision as a student midwife over the last year. During this time Meg has been an incredible role model, demonstrating a high level of clinical knowledge and skills whilst always showing passion and dedication to midwifery. Meg is known for her kind, approachable nature and is always quick and happy to help any one of her colleagues. Meg exhibits great leadership skills as I have witnessed firsthand her ability to escalate issues appropriately and solving problems whilst utilizing the correct channels in a professional manner. Her excellent communication skills and professionalism have always allowed me to work confidently and efficiently under her guidance. Meg would make an excellent QNMU council member and if successful would perform this role to the best of her ability.”
— Shelby Emmerton, RN/SM
“Grant and I started work together on our Council when he was elected while working at a private hospital in Rockhampton. He was a hard-working workplace activist who had the ability to bring people together to achieve great outcomes, not only in his workplace but across workplaces and sectors in central Queensland.
He knows so well the unique challenges for rural and remote areas and is a passionate advocate for members in these areas. He has a great breadth of knowledge of these areas given his work as a nurse in Rockhampton, a union Organiser for Central Queensland and later as an Organiser Team Leader covering most of the regional and remote areas of our vast decentralised state. He has travelled widely across the state, working with members across Queensland to solve their local workplace issues. Together they have achieved many great industrial and professional outcomes. His industrial expertise across all sectors is significant.
Grant is a creative problem solver who knows that sustaining good relationships underpins continued success. Over many years he has worked well with other unions to advance joint union community-based campaigns to advance the lives of working people. He skilfully navigates differences and focuses on advancing shared interests.
I will be voting for Grant in the upcoming election and strongly recommend other members to do likewise.”
— Beth Mohle (QNMU Secretary 2011 - 2022)
“I have know Karla Orellana for approximately seven years during which time I have periodically worked very closely with Karla in our nursing role. I have always found Karla to be a kind and compassionate person who most importantly will stand up for justice and fairness for her colleagues and patients alike. She has strong leadership qualities, and I sincerely endorse her as an excellent candidate for the role of Councillor with QNMU.”
— Mary Batch, RN MNL PhD
“I have known JoJoe professionally for over a decade. During this time, I have been witness to an extremely patient focused Nurse, with strong advocacy for culturally appropriate patient centred care. JoJoe has unwavering determination to make positive change not only to her profession, however to that of patients across the HHS and beyond. My vote will be to a Nursing leader that seeks to ensure ‘a fair go’ for her colleagues. A Nursing Leader who draws on their vast experience to seek positive change in all areas of the health sector ensuring equity and equality. My vote for First Nations South, QNMU Councillor is JoJoe Tesiram.”
— Alison Skiba, A/Nurse Manager
“Grant has passionately supported the QNMU in various roles over the last 10 years or so, becoming a member organiser, to regional organiser, to his current role.
Grant was an Enrolled Nurse who exhibits passion in all roles he has committed to in the past, and will in the future. He has a vested interest in rural, remote and regional communities, and is based in Rockhampton, but commutes to Brisbane as required.
He is very much an advocate to many nurses, Midwives and Nurse Practitioners. His support is unwavering.
Grant offered valuable support and advice when I nominated for QNMU Council, a position I successfully held from 2017 to 2021. I doubt I would have been as effective without his advice and words of wisdom.
I therefore provide my endorsement and support for his nomination for the QNMU election and ongoing leadership of our Union. I firmly believe our QNMU will be in safe and sensible hands with Grant as Assistant Secretary.”
— Dallas Meyers, CN, Emerald
“Until recently I was a QNMU Workplace Rep in the private sector: since 2003.
I am confident that in Sarah and Grant we have strong unionist’s who will continue to put QNMU members first, advocate for our communities and have a great understanding of professional aspects of Nurses and Midwives.
We can continue to trust they will advocate for Nurses and Midwives working in all sectors in Queensland. QNMU will continue to grow with Sarah as Secretary and Grant as Assistant Secretary.”
— Cathy Rose
“Although I have known Meg Briffa for only a couple of years now, it took me no time to recognise the passionate, forward thinking and cultural driven woman and care giver that she is. She has been a breath of fresh air within our maternity unit providing holistic Care with her easy rapport building skills with our clients to coworker support with her bubbly and kind attitude of ‘she will help you with anything’.
Meg is a strong advocate for doing the right thing when it comes to clients and coworkers and encourages all that I know to do the same. Whether verbally or simply by setting the example of what we should expect in our work environment. I have seen Meg engage our indigenous community like no one before her time has ever been able to do so, this resulting in many positive birth and perinatal period experiences and outcomes and encouraging her fellow colleagues to follow in her footsteps. She would make an incredible QNMU council member.”
— Rebecca Wieland, CN/RN
“I would like to submit a testimonial and recommendation for Jo Konings to become a QNMU Councilor or delegate at the next elections.
I have had the pleasure of working alongside and being supported by Jo as a delegate within my hospital for a considerable amount of time and have always found her to be earnest and to act with integrity at all times.
Jo is the first to offer support and guidance to any staff member experiencing work related difficulties and has consistently provided sound advice. She is a strong advocate for fair and equitable practice and provides guidance and support to both members and management alike ensuring due process is adhered to. Jo has consistently fought for improved conditions and motivated staff to engage with EB agreement negotiations. She is professional as well as compassionate and is highly respected amongst peers and management as a QNMU delegate. Jo is also a tremendous support to other delegates across the state. She is meticulous and thorough and would continue to be an incredible asset to QNMU in either a delegate or councilor position.
Her dedication and passion speak volumes, and her ongoing commitment to improving conditions for nurses and midwives across the health services should be supported by an active position within QNMU.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to discuss my recommendation further.”
— Nichole Doran
“I am pleased to provide this testimonial in support of my colleague, Genoveva, for the role of Councillor with the nurses' union. Having had the privilege of working alongside Gen for several years, I have seen her unwavering dedication to supporting her colleagues and advocating for their well-being.
Gen is a compassionate and approachable professional who consistently goes above and beyond to assist fellow nurses. She has a natural ability to listen, provide guidance, and offer practical solutions to workplace challenges. Her strong communication skills and deep understanding of the pressures within the nursing profession make her an ideal candidate for this role.
She is highly respected among her peers for her integrity, professionalism, and commitment to fairness. Gen has always been a strong advocate for a positive work environment and is passionate about ensuring nurses feel valued, heard, and supported. Her ability to navigate complex situations with care and professionalism sets her apart.
I have no doubt that Gen would be an asset to the union in this capacity. Her dedication to the nursing profession and her genuine desire to support her colleagues make her well-suited for this role. I highly recommend her and am confident she will make a meaningful contribution.”
— Rani Sebastian, RN
“In support of Suri Hobday’s candidacy for QNMU council, Suri has been an invaluable colleague, support person, union and legal resource person, and most of all a caretaker or my rights in difficult times in the workplace.
During my time working with Suri, I needed support on many levels. I was subject to psychosocial hazards which took their toll on my mental wellbeing. Suri supported me through this time, her humility, respect and care was invaluable, she stood by me at every turn and her advocacy and guidance was literally lifesaving.
Suri is totally dedicated to QNMU and making workplaces healthy and equitable for the worker. Her proactive influence, advocacy and knowledge to provide the most current industrial information is paramount. She is always available to the members of the QNMU and all workers that she meets. I witnessed her strategic actions when she raised concerns for workers psychological safety at relevant consultative forums. When improvements stalled, she submitted a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) initiating accountability and consultation to conduct Psychosocial Safety Risk assessment to improve workers safety.
Suris integrity, compassion, accountability and respect are forefront in everything she does as a QNMU representative, a Workplace Health and Safety Representative, a Clinical Nurse Consultant, and a Colleague. Her positivity, authenticity, determination and innate leadership qualities make her an excellent candidate for QNMU Council.”
— Janet O’Donnell
“Although I have known Meg Briffa for only a couple of years now, it took me no time to recognise the passionate, forward thinking and cultural driven woman and care giver that she is. She has been a breath of fresh air within our maternity unit providing holistic Care with her easy rapport building skills with our clients to coworker support with her bubbly and kind attitude of ‘she will help you with anything’. Meg is a strong advocate for doing the right thing when it comes to clients and coworkers and encourages all that I know to do the same. Whether verbally or simply by setting the example of what we should expect in our work environment. I have seen Meg engage our indigenous community like no one before her time has ever been able to do so, this resulting in many positive birth and perinatal period experiences and outcomes and encouraging her fellow colleagues to follow in her footsteps. She would make an incredible QNMU council member.”
— Rebecca Wieland, CM/RN
“Working in several teams over the past 6 years with Suri, I have witnessed her to have qualities that I believe are required for this position. Suri is well-known amongst her colleagues to be a champion for the rights, not only of nurses, but workers throughout the workforce. She is well known to go above and beyond in not only maintaining the current award, but has a keen eye and is always looking at ways to improve workplace conditions.”
— Peter Lloyd, CNC, Cairns
“I have had the pleasure of working under Janelle for 5 years now. She first employed me as a pretty novice nurse. As Nurse Unit Manager, her leadership responsibilities go beyond the realm of networking, clinical expertise, critical thinking, and effective communication. Janelle is responsible for a much wider range of tasks, including strategic planning, resource allocation, time management, quality assurance, and interpersonal communication with employees.
Those who work with her are lucky enough to experience a well supported work environment, a collaborative mentor who aids her employees in creating effective nursing processes, actively engaging in quality improvement activities taking place as well as striving for a work life balance and so many other things.
I personally have been lucky enough to receive incredible mentorship from Janelle. Her advice and insights have been instrumental in my personal and career growth.
Janelle is not only passionate about nursing, but leading through nurses. She is an active QNMU member and has been for many years, where she has aided in promoting better nursing working conditions, which I am fortunate to wreak the benefits of, as nurse today.”
— Carly Butler
“I am truly grateful for the incredible support, guidance, and inspiration that Julia has provided me on my journey as a new Nurse Practitioner. She is not only an amazing and compassionate clinician but also a true advocate for the profession. Her dedication to patient-centred care is evident in every interaction, ensuring that evidence-based, holistic care is always at the forefront.
Beyond her exceptional clinical skills, she has demonstrated outstanding leadership and advocacy, continuously working to advance and elevate the role of Nurse Practitioners. Her unwavering support and mentorship have been instrumental in my growth, offering invaluable counsel and encouragement. She embodies what it means to be an innovative, dedicated, and forward-thinking healthcare professional, and I am incredibly fortunate to have her as a role model.”