The Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) is excited to announce new Executives to lead its Management Team – with the appointment of Fiona Cornforth as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Joanne Gonsalves as Chief Operating Officer.
Fiona Cornforth (Wuthathi/Maluligal) of the the far north-east cape of Queensland and Zenadth Kes (the Torres Strait Islands), brings a wealth of experience and capability in national executive leadership, community advocacy and board director roles.
Achieving strong outcomes in leadership roles across government and university sectors, and six years leading the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation, she has become a trusted advisor on creating meaningful systems change, and ensuring that the power and strengths of First Peoples’ cultures lead that change.
Welcoming Ms Cornforth, Chairperson Cameron Costello said she would strengthen QYAC’s cultural and community leadership.
“Fiona’s deep cultural knowledge, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to First Nations advancement made her an exceptional choice to guide QYAC on behalf of the Quandamooka People,” he said.
“Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for QYAC, as we strengthen our role in managing our cultural heritage on Quandamooka Country and roll-out strategies that continue to deliver tourism initiatives and economic development outcomes across Minjerribah and Mulgumpin.
“Fiona will be a great asset for the Board in continuing to drive our Strategic Plan as endorsed by the Members.”
Ms Cornforth said she was honoured to be joining QYAC, bringing her style of leadership to the possibilities and people of QYAC.
“It’s an exciting time for the QYAC as we head to 2032, a strong platform in place, that upholds the rights of the Quandamooka people and protects Country means that greater opportunities to celebrate and lead with cultural authority are upon us,” she said.
“The aspirations of Elders and the Board for future generations, can be realised.”
New COO Joanne Gonsalves is an accomplished executive and company secretary, specialising in governance, finance, compliance and organisational transformation. She previously held the role of Director, People and Governance and Company Secretary at the Healing Foundation.
The appointment of COO Gonsalves was effective from 1 November, with CEO Cornforth joining the team on 1 December 2025.
Mr. Costello thanked Ms Kate Healy for her work as our Acting CEO during the transition to the new CEO.
“Kate has held the organisation steady delivering a 2025-26 Operational Plan and Budget, that saw QYAC open QUAMPI and host the Quandamooka Festival. We wish Kate the very best in her future endeavours,” he added.
