MEET CLAIRE: QLD STATE MANAGER, SERVICES & IMPACT
Behind every young person you support is a dedicated team working to make sure they receive the care, connection and guidance they need. One of the key people leading this work in each state is the State Manager, and in Queensland, that’s Claire.
Q1. What does your role involve, and how does it support young people?
I oversee our therapeutic services and programs across Queensland. The team includes Psychosocial Clinicians who provide counselling and therapeutic support, Programs Officers who run the day, online and overnight programs and a State Support Officer who keeps everything running smoothly. Together, we make sure young people have access to safe, inclusive, and tailored support.
Q2. What inspired you to join Canteen?
With more than 15 years of experience in the youth and paediatric cancer sector, I knew Canteen was the next step for me. I love working with young people, and as a social worker, I saw firsthand how deeply cancer affects every part of their lives. And so, the holistic approach from Canteen is something I was really drawn to. From peer connection and therapeutic support to education, career guidance and leadership development, there is meaningful support for every young person, no matter what stage of their cancer journey they’re in.
The Canteen QLD team.
Q3. What’s one highlight from your time here that still makes you smile?
One standout moment is taking a group of young people to an NRL game, where we attempted to break the world record of most bandannas worn in one location.
The energy was electric. The crowd embraced the challenge, thousands put on their bandannas, and our young people got to take part in the guard of honour before the game. That memory is hard to beat.
Q4. Since joining, what’s something you’ve learned that supporters might not realise about Canteen?
From our commitment to diversity, inclusion and reconciliation, to the leadership opportunities for young people to develop and grow their skills, Canteen really does have young people at the heart of everything.
Canteen provides a space for belonging and validation. Whether a young person needs counselling, connection to other young people who truly understand, or support with their education and career path. Your support ensures they can focus on building a meaningful life despite the challenges cancer brings. Knowing that there are people who care and donate shows young people feel seen and supported. It shows them they’re not alone.
Everything my passionate team and I do is only possible because of you. Your generosity means the world to us, and to every young person who finds comfort, hope and connection through our services. Thank you for standing with them.