Community & Business
30 January, 2026
New GM for community healthcare service
AN exciting new chapter has begun for Mareeba & Communities Family Healthcare (MCFHC) with the appointment of Gail Wason as its first general manager.
The move marks a strengthening of the community-led health service in its capacity to work in Mareeba and surrounding communities.
MCFHC chair Ross Cardillo said Gail’s appointment represented an important step in the organisation’s foundations for the future.
“Gail’s leadership experience, her deep connection to Mareeba, and her proven ability to build strong, community-focused organisations make her an outstanding choice for this role,” he said.
“We’re thrilled to have her guiding MCFHC as we continue to grow and deliver the best possible care for our communities.”
Ms Wason is a familiar face to many in the community. Born and raised in Mareeba, she brings more than three decades of management experience, including 16 years in health, and a deep understanding of what makes community-based health care work.
She led Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Service for 15 years, helping it grow into a strong, respected, and financially stable organisation that continues to serve the community with pride.
Her leadership and commitment to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health have been recognised across Queensland, including being honoured in 2019 with the Australian Medical Association Queensland’s Excellence in Health Care Medal.
Ms Wason also served as chairperson of the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) and previously as acting chief executive officer of the Northern Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Alliance (NATSIHA) in Cairns.
She said her decision to join MCFHC was driven by a shared commitment to community-led care.
“I’m so pleased to return to working at a local level, where I can use my experience to help build a strong, viable and sustainable organisation that supports our community’s health and wellbeing,” she said.
