Queensland Foster and Kinship Care

06/11/2026

It may be only a small gesture of kindness to you, to someone else it may just make a big difference to their day.

A smile or saying good morning or good afternoon to someone you walk past, paying for a coffee for the person next in line at a cafe, find an opportunity today to spread some kindness !!

06/11/2026

We are delighted to congratulate Gemma Squire on her appointment as General Manager of Queensland Foster and Kinship Care (QFKC).

Gemma brings valuable experience and knowledge and a strong understanding of QFKC’s vision, mission, goals, values and beliefs to the role.

Having been part of the organisation for some time, Gemma understands the importance of supporting carers, strengthening relationships and advocating for the needs of children, young people and families.
Gemma’s leadership will play an important role in guiding QFKC's strategic direction, supporting our staff and strengthening our connections with communities and stakeholders across Queensland.
We look forward to the experience, passion and commitment Gemma brings as she leads QFKC into its next chapter.

05/11/2026

It was a pleasure to visit Refocus and spend time with their leadership team, sharing conversations about the important work we each do within our communities.

Our visit provided a valuable opportunity to build connections, strengthen relationships and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Representing QFKC was Dylan Ball, QFKC Network Coordinator for the Sunshine Coast and Central Region, who welcomed the opportunity to connect with the Refocus leadership team and learn more about their work, priorities and shared commitment to supporting people and families.

At QFKC, we believe strong organisations are built through meaningful relationships, open conversations and a willingness to work together.

We look forward to building on these connections and exploring how we can continue to make a positive difference through collaboration.

Refocus Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Service
QLD Foster and Kinship Carer Community Hub
Queensland Foster and Kinship Care

Together

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of welcoming Dylan Ball from Queensland Foster and Kinship Care (QFKC) for a meaningful conversation about the realities facing foster and kinship care families across our communities.

We shared ideas, experiences and insights, talking openly about the challenges people are facing, where the gaps exist, and the opportunities we have to work together to make a difference.

At Refocus, we know that real change happens when people come together. By building strong relationships, listening to one another and sharing what we know, we can create better support for children, young people, carers and families across Queensland. We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with QFKC and look forward to continuing the conversation and strengthening our partnership into the future.

📸 Pictured left to right:
Shardae Eynon (Regional Manager, Sunshine Coast), Sam Allen (Chief Operations Officer), Dylan Ball (Queensland Foster and Kinship Care), Lauren Hooper (Lead Assessor), and MaryAnn Ansey (Chief Family and Medical Services).

04/11/2026

04/11/2026

Foster carers are more than people who open their homes to children. They are people who provide safety, stability, love, belonging and connection to children who need it most.

- Foster carers are the foundation of a child's journey towards healing.
- Foster carers are not just caregivers; they are advocates, nurturers, protectors and the people who stand beside children through their most difficult times.

02/11/2026

At QFKC we have a team of Caseworkers who support foster and kinship carers through complex matters.
QFKC caseworkers approach is based on active listening, open communication, procedural fairness and a genuine commitment to resolving issues constructively.
We recognise that disagreements and difficult conversations are sometimes unavoidable. How we respond matters. Every carer deserves to feel heard, respected, valued and supported, even when there are differing opinions or challenging circumstances.

We are here to support carers, not silence them.
➡️Listen before responding.
➡️Understand before making assumptions.
➡️Never intimidate or belittle.
➡️Treat complaints as opportunities to improve.
➡️Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
➡️Be respectful, even when conversations are difficult.
➡️Escalate concerns appropriately.
➡️Never allow personal opinions to influence professional conduct.
▪️At QFKC, we know that our caseworkers are often supporting people who are already navigating emotionally demanding and complex circumstances. That is why we work with compassion, professionalism and accountability.

02/11/2026

Bremer River Bridge, Warrego Highway – weekend westbound bridge closure 🚧

Travelling on the Warrego Highway though Karalee?

The Bremer River westbound bridge will be closed from 10pm Friday 6 November until 5am Monday 9 November for essential works.

During the closure:
• The Warrego Highway will be reduced to one lane in each direction at Karalee
• Traffic will be diverted across the eastbound bridge
• Delays are expected.

Please seek alternate routes over the course of the weekend, allow extra time when planning your travel and follow the directions of roadside signage and traffic controllers.

These essential concreting works are another key step in extending the life of the existing westbound bridge and enabling removal of the speed restrictions currently in place.

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Queensland Government.

We thank you for your patience and cooperation while these important works are carried out.

31/10/2026

Wonderful night celebrating the incredible Pyjama Foundation. Having conversations and hearing all about the amazing difference Pyjama Angels make to children in care is inspiring. Thankyou to the team at the The Pyjama Foundation and to all the Pyjama Angels and CEO Bronwyn Sheehan you make a difference every day for children in care.