Tuesday, 3 October 2023

Diane Wright

Richard RIORDAN (Polwarth) (13:01): Diane Wright has had a positive impact on the quality of life of hundreds of Australians and has been a trailblazer in paving the way for innovation in regional palliative care. Diane served as president of Anam Cara Colac from 2011 to March 2023 and has now stepped into the role of president emeritus. Diane received a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2019 in recognition of her community work. Other awards include a Paul Harris fellowship from Rotary, an outstanding women’s achievement award from Zonta International, a place on the Victorian women’s honour roll and life membership of Palliative Care Victoria. Diane’s contribution, along with that of her husband Andrew, will be recognised by the Anam Cara Colac community following their AGM this November.

Palliative care holds a special place in Diane’s heart. Diane’s journey with palliative care spans some 25 years, and in this time she has made a significant contribution to the community in founding Anam Cara Geelong and Anam Cara Colac. The community worked together to establish Anam Cara Colac, raising more than $3.2 million and providing more than 12,000 hours of pro bono labour. Now in its 12th year of operation, Anam Cara Colac is a highly successful palliative care service. On behalf of all the people of Polwarth, Surf Coast shire and the Geelong region, we thank and acknowledge the hard work and dedication of service from Diane Wright.