What’s Happening?
Toowoomba Regional Council is celebrating unpaid carers during National Carers’ Week, which runs from 11 to 17 October 2026.
Ahead of the national week, Council hosted its annual morning tea at City Hall. The event took place on behalf of the Darling Downs Warriors Carers’ Support Group.
Carers, support workers and advocates attended the gathering to celebrate the contribution of unpaid carers across the Region.
Why It Matters
Unpaid carers support family members and friends while also managing their own responsibilities. Many balance caring duties with work, study and personal wellbeing.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald recognised their dedication and the difference they make in their communities.
“Carers give so much of themselves to support family members and friends, often while balancing work, study and their own health and wellbeing,” Mayor McDonald said. “Council is incredibly proud to celebrate the dedication, compassion and strength of carers throughout the Toowoomba Region. Their kindness and commitment make a profound difference every day, supporting some of our most vulnerable community members and strengthening families and communities across our Region. We are deeply grateful for all they do.”
Local Impact
The City Hall gathering gave local carers an opportunity to come together and receive recognition.
Council also highlighted the importance of local advocates and support organisations. These groups help carers access support and feel connected to their communities.
Mayor McDonald expressed his appreciation for their efforts.
“We are fortunate to have such passionate local advocates and support organisations helping carers to feel seen, heard, valued and connected,” Mayor McDonald said.
Key Points
-
Local advocates: Mayor McDonald acknowledged Sue Waters, George Helon and Darling Downs Warriors Carers’ Support Group members for championing carers’ needs.
-
2026 theme: Care for a Carer: Making Carers Visible celebrates carers as individuals and highlights their contribution.
-
Support available: Carers can seek assistance from government agencies, local support services, Lifeline or the Darling Downs Warriors Carers’ Support Group.
Zoom In
The 2026 National Carers’ Week theme focuses on recognising carers as individuals, not just for the support they provide.
Meanwhile, Darling Downs Warriors Carers’ Support Group founder Sue Waters and national carer advocate George Helon continue to champion carers’ needs. The group’s members also help connect carers with support.
Zoom Out
National Carers’ Week highlights the important role unpaid carers play in supporting families and communities.
Beyond recognising their contributions, this year’s theme also encourages greater visibility for carers themselves. It draws attention to the individuals behind the care they provide.
What To Look For Next?
National Carers’ Week continues until 17 October 2026, with a focus on recognising carers and their contributions.
Carers seeking assistance are encouraged to contact appropriate government agencies, local support services, Lifeline or the Darling Downs Warriors Carers’ Support Group.