Meet….. Our wonderful staff
Our team
Director CQ Health Hub / Registered Nurse / Disability Support Worker / Community Nurse
Emma Schmidt
Emma is a skilled professional with a background in Paediatric and Child Health nursing. Making the move from England to Australia in 2009. With an extensive experience spanning across tertiary and rural hospitals in Queensland, where her work ethic is characterized by empathy and professionalism, always placing clients' needs as a top priority. Beyond Emma’s dedication to healthcare, she has a deep passion for the outdoors and cherish quality time spent with her family, including her two children and furry friends. You can often find Emma indulging in her love for coffee at a local spot around town.
Business Manager CQ Health Hub / Registered Nurse/ Disability Support Worker/ Community and General Practitioner Nurse
Natalie Smith
Natalie is a Registered Nurse with over a decade of experience in paediatrics from working in children’s hospitals in both New Zealand and Brisbane. Recently, Natalie has furthered her nursing skills in the general practice environment. Natalie’s passion is working with children and supporting their journey with empathy, kindness and encouragement. When Natalie is not chasing after her children, you can find her in the kitchen baking, enjoying the outdoors and pottering in the garden or reading a good book.
Registered Nurse / Disability Support Worker / Administration
Taryn Simmons
Taryn has a background in healthcare and community support, with a strong focus on reintegrating community members into social settings. Originally from Boyne Island, Taryn relocated from the Sunshine Coast to Yeppoon a few years ago. She is passionate about cooking, the outdoors, crafts, puzzles, and adores time spent with her family, two children, and two dogs. With a love for music and a willingness to try new things, Taryn brings energy and innovative ideas to CQ Health Hub
Disability Support Worker
Angela Edwards
Meet Angela but you can call her Ange. Currently pursuing a certificate 3 in Individual Support for Ageing and Disability. Ang has a deep-seated passion for assisting individuals in accomplishing their objectives, regardless of their magnitude. Engaging in support work has revealed to Ang the significant number of people who simply need an extra helping hand on a daily basis. Ang resides in this beautiful region with her spouse and three children. Ang is looking forward to getting to know you better in order to support you on your own path."
Disability Support Worker
Sam Blackford
Meet Sam. A exceptional support worker who holds a certificate 3 in disability/aged care, along with certifications in first aid, CPR, and assisting with medication. Sam has prior experience working with special needs individuals at a day care. People describe Sam as compassionate, empathetic and fun, with a passion for craft and painting. In her free time, Sam enjoys spending time with her family, including two children, getting crafty and playing board games.
Disability Support Worker
Tracy Bone
Tracy is an enthusiastic support worker at CQ Health Hub, balancing her part-time role with work in retail. With years of experience as a hairdresser in Yeppoon, she has a natural ability to connect with the community. Her passion for supporting clients shines through as she helps them access resources and encourages them to explore new opportunities.
Tracy holds certifications in First Aid and CPR, making her confident in handling challenging situations. Her caring nature and genuine approach foster trust and connection with families and clients alike.
In her free time, Tracy enjoys outdoor activities with her family, including golfing, camping, fishing, and relaxing at the beach.
Disability Support Worker / Teacher Aide
Jackie Kent
Jackie is a dedicated support worker who joined the field this year while working full-time as a Teacher Aide. She has experience supporting children with behavioral and emotional needs and is currently finishing her Certificate III in Education, along with holding certifications in First Aid and CPR. Before her work in education, Jackie spent many years in a medical reception role in Yeppoon.
With a big heart and a happy, caring nature, Jackie finds joy in helping children and families. She loves providing that extra support and encouragement to families, helping them connect with their community. In her free time, Jackie enjoys relaxing with family and friends, spending time at the beach, visiting the lagoon, and fitting in some walking and exercise whenever she can. Her passion for making a difference in the lives of others truly shines through
Disability Support Worker
Keely Henderson
Keely graduated this year from St Ursula’s Yeppoon, where she earned a Certificate II in Health Support Services and a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance. She is also certified in First Aid and CPR and has experience as a former pharmacy assistant.
With a strong interest in art and nature, Keely is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals, no matter how big or small. Coming from a big family has significantly shaped her values and approach to life, fostering a sense of community and support in her work.
Disability Support Worker
Kaila Gaardsted
Kaila is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Individual Care and brings valuable experience in aged care, along with a compassionate, client-focused approach to her work. She is dedicated to helping clients achieve their personal goals while ensuring the journey is enjoyable. Kaila empowers individuals to become more independent and thrive within their communities. Growing up with five brothers, she has developed a strong sense of patience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for community. In her free time, Kaila enjoys camping, hiking, and exploring the outdoors, always seeking new adventures and connecting with her family and friends.
Disability Support Worker
Laureen O’Grady
With a deep passion for the outdoors, nature plays a significant role in daily life, and time spent with family and friends is always a priority. Known for a contagious smile and laid-back personality, sports, especially gymnastics and beach volleyball, are important hobbies. Supporting others in their interests is a true joy, and quality time and play are highly valued. Certified in First Aid, CPR, Certificate III in Health Support Services, and Allied Health Assistance, experience includes roles at Yeppoon Hospital and in aged care. Additionally, there is experience in supporting children and adults with special needs. Having lived in Yeppoon and around Rockhampton my entire life, cold beach swims and a passion for crafting bring additional joy to life.
Disability Support Worker
Lesa Schmidt
Meet Lesa. Lesa is an exceptional support worker with a Certificate III in Disability and certifications in First Aid and CPR. With experience supporting individuals with special needs and acquired brain injuries (ABI), she’s known for her fun, adventurous, and compassionate nature. Lesa has a passion for crafts and cosplay, bringing creativity into her life and work. In her free time, she loves spending quality moments with her family, including her two adult children. She enjoys riding her motorcycle, walking along beautiful beaches, and swimming or snorkelling, embracing the outdoors and all its adventures
Disability Support Worker
Katie Wood
My name is Katie, and I’m a beauty therapist originally from the Gold Coast. For the past 12 years, I’ve been calling Yeppoon home. Recently, I embarked on a new journey as a support worker, fulfilling my long-time passion for helping others in a meaningful way. I find great joy and fulfilment in building strong relationships with my clients and supporting them as they work towards their goals.
In my free time, I cherish moments spent with my family and find peace in the outdoors, particularly when I'm in the garden or surrounded by nature.
I also hold current CPR and First Aid certificates.