On Thursday, 26 February 2026, members and guests of the Queensland Medical Women’s Society gathered at the United Services Club for an evening of connection, reflection, and forward planning at our Annual General Meeting and dinner.
The AGM provided an opportunity to reflect on a successful 2025, with members reviewing and endorsing the 2025 Minutes, Financial Report, President’s Report, and 2026 Agenda. It was inspiring to celebrate the Society’s achievements and outline an exciting vision for the year ahead.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the evening was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues across specialties and career stages. Over dinner, members shared stories, mentorship, and aspirations for 2026 — reinforcing the strength and solidarity of our community of medical women.
Featured Address: Dr Cathryn Hester “What’s Your Personal Plimsoll Line?”
We were privileged to hear from Dr Cathryn Hester, General Practitioner, healthcare leader, and advocate for primary care.
Dr Hester shared a thought-provoking reflection on identifying one’s personal plimsoll line — the point at which capacity, wellbeing, and professional responsibility must be carefully balanced. Drawing from her diverse career across clinical practice, governance, and leadership — including her roles with West Moreton Hospital and Health Service and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners — she offered practical insights into boundary-setting, sustainability, and leading with clarity.
Her message resonated deeply with attendees navigating the complex demands of modern medical careers. The discussion that followed was rich, honest, and energising.
2026 Committee
Executive:
President: Janet Draper
Vice-President: Natasha Abeysekera
Treasurer: Serena Chern
Secretary: Brenda Ngo
The Digital Communications Team:
Lead: Celine Lee
Members: Chelsea Chern (Griffith) and Ava Allen (Bond)
QMWS100 Secretary: Chloe Hang
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representative: Ellen MacDonald (UQ)
The Sponsorship and Bursary Team:
Lead: Lydia Pitcher
Members: Jessie Gartside & Evelyn Ma (Bond)
The Events Team:
Lead: Megha Kadian (UQ)
Members: Anoushka Kothari, Mira Prashar and Udani Liyanage
The Student Rep Team:
Lead: Anna Gibbs (UQ)
Members: Ava Allen (Bond), Chelsea Chern (Griffith), Evelyn Ma (Bond), Katherine Chicalas (JCU), Zina Dorado (UQ) & Ellen MacDonald (UQ)
Mentor: Ira van der Steenstraten
Thank You to Our Sponsor
We extend our sincere thanks to Avant Mutual Group Limited for their generous sponsorship of the 2026 AGM. Their ongoing support helps us continue our mission to empower, connect, and advocate for medical women across Queensland.