Meet the Team
Emma Schmidt
Director CQ Health Hub / Registered Nurse / Disability Support Worker / Community Nurse
Emma has a background in Paediatric and Child Health Nursing and brings extensive experience across both tertiary and rural hospitals in Queensland. Originally from England, she made the move to Australia in 2009 and has since built a strong reputation for her empathy, professionalism, and commitment to placing clients’ needs first. Beyond her dedication to healthcare, Emma has a deep love for the outdoors and cherishes spending quality time with her family, including her two children and her furry companions. When she’s not working, you’ll often find Emma enjoying a great coffee at one of her favourite local spots around town.
Natalie Smith
Business Manager CQ Health Hub / Registered Nurse/ Disability Support Worker/ Community and General Practitioner Nurse
Natalie is a Registered Nurse with over a decade of experience in paediatrics, having worked in children’s hospitals across New Zealand and Brisbane. More recently, she has further expanded her clinical skills within the general practice setting. Natalie also has experience supporting individuals living with dementia and has completed specialised training and courses in dementia care, enabling her to provide compassionate, informed, and person-centred support. She has a strong passion for working with children and supporting them through their journeys with empathy, kindness, and encouragement. Outside of work, when she’s not busy chasing after her own children, Natalie enjoys baking in the kitchen, spending time outdoors, pottering in the garden, and relaxing with a good book.
Angela Edwards
Admin / Disability Support Worker
Angela is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability). She has a genuine passion for assisting individuals to achieve their goals, no matter how big or small. Through her work in support, Angela has seen firsthand how many people simply need an extra helping hand in their everyday lives, and she finds great fulfilment in being that support. Angela lives in this beautiful region with her spouse and three children and looks forward to getting to know each person she supports, walking alongside them on their own unique journey.
Sam Blackford
Media / Disability Support Worker
Sam holds a Certificate III in Disability and Aged Care, along with certifications in First Aid, CPR, and Assisting with Medication. She is an exceptional support worker with prior experience supporting individuals with special needs in a day-care setting. Sam is known for her compassionate, empathetic, and fun nature, and she brings creativity into her work through her passion for craft and painting. In her free time, Sam enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her two children, getting crafty together and playing board games.
Tracy Bone
Disability Support Worker
Tracy holds certifications in First Aid and CPR. She is an enthusiastic support worker at CQ Health Hub, balancing her part-time role with work in retail. With many years of experience as a hairdresser in Yeppoon, Tracy has a natural ability to connect with people and build strong relationships within the community. Her passion for supporting clients shines through as she helps them access resources, encourages independence, and supports them to explore new opportunities. Tracy’s caring nature and genuine approach foster trust and meaningful connections with both clients and families. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, including golfing, camping, fishing, and relaxing at the beach.
Jackie Kent
Disability Support Worker / Teacher Aide
Jackie holds a Certificate III in Education (currently completing), along with First Aid and CPR certifications. She joined the support-work sector last year while working full-time as a Teacher Aide and brings valuable experience supporting children with behavioural and emotional needs. Prior to her role in education, Jackie spent many years working in a medical reception position in Yeppoon, giving her a strong background in communication and care. With a big heart and a happy, caring nature, Jackie finds great joy in supporting children and families, providing extra encouragement and helping them feel connected within their community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing at the beach or lagoon, and fitting in walking and exercise whenever she can. Jackie’s passion for making a meaningful difference truly shines through in everything she does.
Jacqui Beatty
Disability Support Worker
Jacquie completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care after leaving school and went on to nearly complete her Certificate III in Individual Support. She also holds current First Aid and CPR qualifications. With a strong background in hospitality, Jacquie brings excellent people skills, adaptability, and a caring nature to her role. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her partner and children, travelling to New Zealand whenever she can, and making the most of the outdoors with family trips to Keppel and Agnes—especially encouraging her kids to learn to surf. Jacquie’s down-to-earth approach and genuine love for people make her a wonderful part of the team.
Kaila Gaardsted
Disability Support Worker
Kaila is an Occupational Therapy student with experience supporting participants in aged care and disability settings. She is trained in First Aid, CPR, and PEG care, and brings a calm, reliable, and person-centred approach to her work.
Kaila enjoys supporting young people to build confidence, independence, and everyday life skills through engaging and meaningful activities. Coming from a large family, she values patience and positive relationships. She enjoys being outdoors and staying active, and works closely with participants and families to ensure supports are safe, respectful, and aligned with individual NDIS goals.
Laureen O’Grady
Disability Support Worker
Laureen holds a Certificate III in Health Support Services and Allied Health Assistance and is certified in First Aid and CPR. She brings valuable experience from working at Yeppoon Hospital, in aged care, and supporting both children and adults with special needs.
With a lifelong connection to Yeppoon and the Rockhampton region, Laureen has a deep passion for the outdoors, with nature playing an important role in her everyday life. Known for her contagious smile and laid-back personality, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends and loves supporting others to pursue their interests. Sports are a big part of her life—particularly gymnastics and beach volleyball—and she also enjoys cold beach swims and crafting in her downtime. Quality time, play, and meaningful connections are at the heart of everything Laureen does.
Lesa Schmidt
Disability Support Worker
Lesa holds a Certificate III in Disability and is certified in First Aid and CPR. She brings valuable experience supporting individuals with special needs and acquired brain injuries (ABI). Known for her fun, adventurous, and compassionate nature, Lesa brings warmth and creativity into her work, with a strong passion for crafts and cosplay. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her two adult children. Lesa loves embracing the outdoors—whether riding her motorcycle, walking along beautiful beaches, or swimming and snorkelling—bringing energy, creativity, and care into everything she does.
Renae Jennings
Disability Support Worker
Renae is currently nearing completion of her Certificate IV in Community Services and brings over ten years of experience in early childhood development. She is trauma-informed and trained in supporting individuals with ADHD and autism, as well as having experience in drug and alcohol addiction, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse support. Renae also holds current First Aid and CPR certifications. Passionate about seeing people succeed, she finds great fulfilment in supporting and empowering others on their journey. Outside of work, Renae values quality time with her family and enjoys switching off by spending time on the islands.
Kathy Peet
Disability Support Worker
Kathy holds a Certificate III in Disability and Aged Care and is fully certified in First Aid and CPR. She is a dedicated and compassionate support worker who values building meaningful, supportive relationships with those she assists. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys spending time gardening, boating, fishing, and relaxing at the beach. Family time is especially important to her, and she values creating a healthy balance between her professional role and personal life.
Ros McConkey
Disability Support Worker
Ros is a dedicated Support Worker with six months of hands-on experience and holds current First Aid and CPR certifications. She has a genuine passion for supporting others and creating positive, meaningful experiences. Outside of work, Ros loves the great outdoors and enjoys glamping, swimming, walking, and hiking, embracing every opportunity to stay active and connected with nature.