Gold Coast Health is recognised for quality patient care, nursing and midwifery excellence and innovations in professional nursing and midwifery practice under the Magnet® Recognition Program.
"Walking together in kindness" artwork produced for Gold Coast Health by Riki Salam, We are 27 Creative.
When most of us think about our colleagues’ hobbies outside of work, running, reading or pottery might come to mind.
But for Gold Coast Health Dental Therapist Leanne Evert, her passion for helping others has taken her to rooftops, disaster zones and even the Kokoda Track.
That dedication recently saw Leanne named as one of three finalists in the ‘New to Volunteering’ category at the Queensland Volunteering Awards, recognising those who have made an outstanding contribution to their communities within their first three years of service.
Leanne was recognised for her volunteer work with the State Emergency Service (SES) and the Kokoda Youth Foundation.
“I started volunteering in 2024 with the Kokoda Youth Foundation as a volunteer leader on one of the 96-kilometre Kokoda events,” Leanne said.
“When I was out hiking, I came across the SES and saw what they were doing and thought I’d love to be part of it.”
Now an active SES volunteer, Leanne has supported Queensland communities during some of their toughest moments, including responding to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“I never imagined I’d be climbing onto rooftops,” she said.
“But after completing the heights course, I’ve spent plenty of time on them.”
And if you happen to spot the SES mascot, Paddy the Platypus, at a community event, there’s every chance it’s Leanne behind the costume.
For Leanne, volunteering isn’t about recognition, it’s about showing that everyone can make a difference.
“You don’t have to volunteer in a physical role,” she said.
“You could read a book to someone. You choose how much you want to give.”
Congratulations, Leanne, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for the incredible impact you continue to make, both inside and outside Gold Coast Health.
