Cancer Care for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples on the Gold Coast will be strengthened by the appointment of McGrath Cancer Care Nurse, Kayalia Marks, a proud Yuwaalaraay woman and experienced oncology nurse, as the region's first identified First Nations First Nations (identified) McGrath Cancer Care Nurse.
Located at Gold Coast University Hospital, Kayalia provides free, culturally safe cancer care and support for First Nations patients diagnosed with any type of cancer. Her role integrates clinical expertise with emotional and psychosocial support, aiming to improve health outcomes and experiences for First Nations individuals and their families.
Nurses working alongside Kayalia are encouraged to engage in culturally responsive practices, recognising the importance of holistic care that respects cultural identity, community connections, and individual needs
With more than 15 years' experience as a registered nurse and currently enrolled in a postgraduate certificate in cancer nursing, Kayalia combines deep clinical expertise with a passion for supporting her community.
Kayalia, said: "As a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse, I want to improve service access and delivery to ensure First Nations cancer patients feel safe, seen, and supported throughout their cancer experience. My goal in my role is to help close the gap by reducing barriers, advocating for culturally appropriate care, and walking alongside Mob so they receive the care they deserve - not just clinically, but culturally and emotionally as well."
"I want to ensure First Nations cancer patients feel safe, seen, and supported throughout their cancer experience."
- Kayalia Marks | McGrath Cancer Care Nurse
Ryan Barlow, McGrath Foundation CEO, said: "We're honoured to support Kayalia in this vital role. She brings both cultural understanding and extensive clinical expertise and we know the impact of her care will be deeply felt in the community."
Kaylia's appointment marks an important step towards addressing inequities in cancer care for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, with six more First Nations (identified) McGrath Cancer Care Nurses expected to commence in other regions across Australia by April 2026.
"We're honoured to support Kayalia in this vital role. She brings both cultural understanding and extensive clinical expertise and we know the impact of her care will be deeply felt in the community."
- Ryan Barlow | CEO
Kayalia is one of five McGrath Cancer Care Nurses supporting patients across the Gold Coast region.
There are currently 343 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses across Australia, and 62 supporting people with cancer throughout Queensland. McGrath Foundation nursing care is completely free. You don't even need a referral. To find your nearest nurse, click the button below.
