General News
2 September, 2026
COUCH hub strengthens
COUCH Cancer Hub NQ will merge with the Leukaemia Foundation to strengthen cancer care and support across Far North Queensland.
The merger will combine COUCH’s community-led services with the Leukaemia Foundation’s clinical expertise, national reach and operational capabilities, while retaining the Hub’s existing name.
COUCH Chair Prof Scott Davis said both organisations were committed to providing care for people affected by cancer, particularly those living in rural and regional communities.
“The focus of both our organisations is the provision of compassionate, evidence-based, wraparound care for people affected by cancer with a shared commitment to strengthening and expanding support for people living in rural and regional communities.
“COUCH has a deep understanding of the needs of our local community and delivers tailored support to people impacted by cancer across the region. The Leukaemia Foundation brings significant clinical expertise, national reach and operational capability, which strengthen and complement the care we provide,” Prof Davis said.
Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti said the merger “would bridge the health divide that exists between people living in metropolitan and regional areas.”
“For people facing cancer in Far North Queensland, having access to support close to home can make an enormous difference. This integration is about strengthening the care and support available to local people, ensuring more individuals and families can access the practical, emotional and wellbeing services they need throughout every stage of their cancer experience.”
The Woodwards, the founding family, described the merger as a positive and meaningful move.
“It honours the heart of this work – care, compassion and community – and will help ensure support reaches even more people into the future.”
Prof Davis said the Hub would continue operating under its existing name, and donors and supporters could still direct funds to COUCH. Locally raised funds will remain in the region to directly support people in the North Queensland community.
“We are deeply grateful to the families, donors and supporters whose compassion and generosity have built COUCH into what it is today. Together with the Leukaemia Foundation, we now look forward to building on that legacy – expanding what’s possible for people impacted by cancer across our region.”
