We all have a story, this is ours
Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health (COUCH) is a community-founded foundation with a mission to enhance the quality of life for the cancer-impacted community in the North.
Founded in September 2006 by Charles and Pip Woodward, COUCH (originally Committee for Oncology Unit Cairns Hospital) began as an action group inspired by Cairns local Liz Plummer, whose courageous public advocacy highlighted the urgent need for better oncology services in Far North Queensland.
Since then, our board and volunteers have remained committed to the founding mision – addressing the imbalance in cancer support and services between our region and larger metropolitan areas.
The lack of oncology and cancer support services caused unnecessary hardship for residents forced to travel to Townsville, Brisbane or further south for treatment – a burden that added emotional and financial strain to an already difficult journey.
COUCH and the community changed that by advocating for an accessible oncology treatment facility in Cairns.
A community united for change
From the moment COUCH was formed in 2006, public support has been overwhelming. In 2009, COUCH achieved a major milestone when the Queensland Government announced that Cairns would receive oncology services by 2010 – five years ahead of schedule. This breakthrough, driven by tireless campaigning and fundraising, fast-tracked access to oncology therapy in Cairns, a vital step in improving local cancer treatment options in the region.
But oncology treatments were just the beginning.
Inspired by the Woodwards’ vision, COUCH set out to create a dedicated health and wellbeing hub in Cairns – a welcoming space where people impacted by cancer could access holistic wraparound support services close to home.
Thanks to significant investment from the Federal Government, as well as the incredible generosity of the community, the COUCH Wellness Centre officially opened in May 2019. This $3 million facility now serves as a vital hub for integrated cancer care and wellbeing services across the region. It was renamed COUCH Cancer Hub NQ in 2025 to better reflect its mission.
Guided by its founding vision, COUCH continues to raise funds, advocate for improved cancer services and support the health and wellbeing of people living with cancer across Far North Queensland.
Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre
On 27 June 2011, the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre welcomed its first patient for treatment – a moment that marked the culmination of five years of tireless advocacy by COUCH to bring oncology services to Cairns Base Hospital.
Named in honour of Liz Plummer, a Cairns resident whose public cancer journey became a powerful catalyst for change, the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre stands as a tribute to her legacy. Although Liz sadly passed away in 2009, the centre remains a deeply meaningful tribute to her legacy.
Located in E Block at Cairns Hospital, the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre is one of the most modern and advanced facilities in Queensland. Operated by Radiation Oncology Centres, it is recognised as one of the world’s first truly digital radiation oncology facilities, delivering cutting-edge cancer treatment in a supportive, patient-first environment.
Commitment to you
As a local cancer support organisation, we’re committed to delivering real outcomes for those living in the North. We work alongside clients, their families, and healthcare providers to ensure every person receives coordinated, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, living with cancer, or caring for someone who is, COUCH is here to walk the journey with you — providing the resources, support, and community you need to live well with cancer.
We provide a range of evidence-based cancer-care services designed to support individuals, families and carers throughout their cancer journey
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 deserve.
At COUCH, we’re here to change that. Since 2019, the COUCH Cancer Hub NQ has been providing compassionate, evidence-based care close to home — bringing together cancer-care nursing, physical therapies, and wellbeing programs to support every person through 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.