Reception in Support of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month

Member for Cooper, Ms Jonty Bush MP; Councillor for Central Ward, Brisbane City Council, Councillor Vicki Howard; Councillor for The Gap Ward, Councillor Steve Toomey; Cystic Fibrosis Queensland, Acting President, Ms Connie Arundel and CEO, Ms Petrina Fraccaro, clinicians, staff, supporters and volunteers; distinguished guests. 

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today. 

I am delighted to be with you all, at the start of this year’s Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month—which shines a light on this complex, challenging genetic condition, and how all Queenslanders can help to find a cure. 

As Patron-in-Chief of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland, I am truly honoured to support an organisation that since 1960, has worked so hard to drive life-changing advancement, through its initiatives, advocacy and research. 

I know that the CF families joining us today are very aware of how each positive step makes a significant impact on both health and morale, and I take this moment to commend you for your courage, determination and belief, and for enabling your experiences to inform decision making.    

May, of course, is a very special month, with the “65 Roses Challenge” encouraging Queenslanders to set a unique goal for fundraising, while also drawing attention to the issues that the cystic fibrosis community face each and every day.  

The financial, physical and emotional burdens produced by arduous and relentless treatment and management regimes, make life incredibly difficult, not just for those living with the condition, but for the families who are supporting them.  

Despite the impediments, we must look back to see how far we have come. CF was once considered a paediatric disease, and this is no longer the case. Where previously treatments focussed on the symptoms, more recent breakthroughs in medications, and their inclusion on the PBS, make access to transformational modulator drugs significantly more affordable, reduce hospitalisation and improve quality of life for many.  

Such scientific advancements, together with the ever-developing capabilities of technology, provide significant hope, and are made possible by global collaboration.  

I acknowledge and thank the clinicians and industry colleagues here today—who are such a valuable part of this effort.  

The funding and delivery of crucial research, essential equipment—such as free nebulisers to members3—education and psychosocial programs, and a range of other life-enhancing resources would not be possible without the generosity of Grantors, sponsors, donors and volunteers…and I express my heartfelt gratitude to you all.  

And I also pay tribute to the Board, staff and all members of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland for your resolve and conviction. 

But the fight to breathe continues. Existing medications are not effective for everyone, CF numbers are increasing as the population grows, and one million Australians asymptomatically carry the CF gene that can unknowingly be passed onto their children.  

While we look to the future with confidence, we must continue to work together for improvements today, and raising awareness, and building understanding amongst the general public is a key part of that mission.   

As Government House joins other landmarks around our State this evening in lighting up in red as a beacon of promise and solidarity, I encourage all Queenslanders to take up the 65 Roses Challenge. 

Thank you.