Braille House is delighted to announce that Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young PSM has graciously accepted the invitation to become Patron of Braille House.
Braille House is delighted to announce that Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young PSM has graciously accepted the invitation to become Patron of Braille House. This marks the continuation of a cherished tradition of Vice-Regal Patronage, reaffirming our longstanding connection to the Queensland community and our commitment to empowering individuals who are blind or have low vision.
A Legacy of Support: Vice-Regal Patronage at Braille House
For over 125 years, Braille House—originally established as the Queensland Braille Writing Association—has been at the forefront of promoting braille literacy and supporting inclusive education. The organisation was founded by Lady Lamington, wife of then Governor of Queensland, The Right Honourable Charles Cochrane-Baillie, 2nd Baron Lamington. Lady Lamington’s vision laid the foundation for Braille House to thrive as a vital resource for the visually impaired community.
Since its inception, Braille House has enjoyed continuous Vice-Regal support, with each successive Governor of Queensland embracing the role of Patron. We are proud that this tradition continues under the patronage of Dr Jeannette Young, whose dedication to public service aligns with our mission of fostering accessibility and literacy for all.
About Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young PSM
Dr Jeannette Young’s distinguished career in medicine and public health has spanned over three decades, characterised by her commitment to improving health outcomes for all Queenslanders.
Born in Sydney in 1963, Dr Young’s early medical training began at the prestigious University of Sydney, where she earned her medical degree in 1986. Her career took root at Westmead Hospital, where she honed her clinical skills and transitioned into medical management, earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Macquarie University.
Her journey to Queensland began in 1994, when she took on the role of Director of Medical Services at Rockhampton Hospital. By 1999, she had relocated to Brisbane, becoming Executive Director of Medical Services at Princess Alexandra Hospital. Her leadership in medical workforce planning was instrumental in shaping healthcare delivery across the state, including her role as Chair of the Australian Medical Workforce Advisory Committee (AMWAC).
Leadership During a Pandemic
In August 2005, Dr Young was appointed as Queensland’s Chief Health Officer (CHO), a position she held for 16 years. Her tenure saw her lead numerous public health initiatives, with her most notable contributions coming during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the State Health Incident Controller, Dr Young became a trusted and steadfast figure, guiding Queensland’s pandemic response with expertise and compassion.
Her contributions to public health have earned her numerous accolades, including:
- Fellowships from the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators and the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom,
- Honorary doctorates from two Queensland universities, and
- The prestigious Public Service Medal and an Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
On 1 November 2021, Dr Young was sworn in as the 27th Governor of Queensland, continuing her service to the community in this esteemed role. Alongside her husband, Professor Graeme Nimmo, Dr Young remains dedicated to championing initiatives that uplift and inspire all Queenslanders.
Braille House: Continuing a Tradition of Literacy and Inclusion
As Braille House moves forward under Her Excellency’s patronage, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide accessible resources and support for those who are blind or have low vision. Through our extensive library, braille transcription services, and educational programs, we continue to open doors to literacy and learning for all.
We are honoured to have Dr Jeannette Young’s support as we celebrate more than a century of service and look ahead to a future of greater inclusion and opportunity.