Excellence in cancer care our mission
Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health (COUCH) is a community-founded foundation improving life for people impacted by cancer in Far North Queensland.
Founded in September 2006 by Charles and Pip Woodward, COUCH began as the Committee for Oncology Unit Cairns Hospital. It was inspired by local resident Liz Plummer, whose advocacy highlighted the urgent need for better oncology services. Her campaign sparked a movement that continues to transform cancer care in Cairns.
Since its inception, COUCH has worked to close the gap in cancer support between Far North Queensland and metropolitan areas. Before local services existed, many residents faced emotional and financial strain traveling to Townsville, Brisbane, or beyond for treatment. COUCH’s advocacy and community support helped change this.
A community united for change: Bringing oncology services to Cairns
From the start, public support for COUCH was strong. In 2009, the Queensland Government announced Cairns would receive oncology services by 2010, five years early. This milestone, achieved through community fundraising and tireless advocacy, brought life-saving cancer treatments closer to home, reducing travel stress and hardship.
COUCH’s mission didn’t stop at treatment access. Inspired by the Woodwards’ vision, the organisation created a health and wellbeing hub. It offers a welcoming space where people affected by cancer can access holistic support services in one place.
With significant Federal Government investment and community generosity, the COUCH Wellness Centre officially opened in May 2019. This $3 million facility is now a central hub for integrated cancer care and wellbeing services across the region. In 2025, it was renamed COUCH Cancer Hub NQ to better reflect its mission of providing comprehensive support for the cancer-impacted community.
Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre
On 27 June 2011, the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre welcomed its first patient, marking the success of five years of COUCH advocacy to bring oncology services to Cairns Base Hospital.
Named in honour of Liz Plummer, whose public cancer journey sparked change, the centre is a lasting tribute to her legacy. Although Liz passed away in 2009, her vision continues to inspire modern cancer care in Cairns.
Located in E Block at Cairns Hospital, the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre is one of Queensland’s most advanced oncology facilities. Operated by Radiation Oncology Centres, it is among the world’s first fully digital radiation oncology centres, delivering cutting-edge treatment in a supportive, patient-focused environment.
Continuing the Mission
Guided by its founding vision, COUCH Cancer Hub NQ continues to:
-
Raise funds to expand local cancer support services
-
Advocate for improved oncology care in Far North Queensland
-
Deliver research-driven wellbeing programs for people living with cancer
As a community-led organisation, COUCH ensures that people affected by cancer in Cairns and surrounding regions have access to the support, treatment, and care they need, close to home.
Commitment to you
As a Cairns-based cancer support organisation, COUCH Cancer Hub NQ is dedicated to improving the lives of people impacted by cancer in Far North Queensland. We work with clients, their families, and healthcare providers to deliver coordinated, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, living with cancer, or supporting a loved one, COUCH is here to walk the journey with you, providing the resources, guidance, and community you need to live well.
Our evidence-based services support individuals, families, and carers at every stage of the cancer journey, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
Why we’re here
Cancer touches every corner of our community. Distance, disadvantage, and limited access to care mean too many people face cancer without the support they need.
At COUCH, we’re here to change that. Since 2019, the COUCH Cancer Hub NQ has provided compassionate, evidence-based care close to home, combining cancer-care nursing, physical therapies, and wellbeing programs to support every person at every stage of their cancer journey.
Driving force
To enhance the quality of life for the cancer-impacted community in the North.
Our vision
To be the North’s ultimate hub for integrated cancer care.
Values that matter
Care
We prioritise empathy and compassion, fostering a culture of support and kindness through thoughtful actions and a nurturing approach.
Community
We work to support locals through their cancer and wellness, building a sense of community by promoting inclusivity, unity and a safe place for sharing experiences through events, support groups and our digital platforms.
Excellence
We consistently deliver high-quality service and strive for excellence in all aspects of our work.
Collaboration
We believe that by listening and walking together we can harness the strengths of people, communities and partner agencies.
Integrity
We are ethical, honest, reliable and fair. We listen and are accountable to our communities, acting with transparency to earn and build trust.