For Immediate Use
11 July 2023

Animal Welfare League Queensland CEO to retire after a distinguished 30-year tenure

An enduring legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of Animal Welfare League Queensland

After an incredible 30-year career with Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ), embracing a brighter future for animals, Denise has made the decision to step down from her role as Chief Executive Officer and embrace retirement.

Her tireless dedication and strategic vision have made an indelible impact on the lives of countless animals in need and their families.

Denise’s relentless commitment and strategic acumen have been the backbone of AWLQ’s growth since she took charge. The transformation from a small volunteer group in 1959 to one of Queensland’s largest and most respected charities is a testament to her dedication and commitment to improving animals’ lives.

Denise will remain the Chief Executive Officer during this transitional period until a suitable replacement is identified.

AWLQ is dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition, focusing on securing a new Chief Executive Officer who embodies the same passion, skills, and commitment to our mission. The incoming Chief Executive Officer will be granted comprehensive stewardship across all facets of our organisation.

While we anticipate the transition will be completed before the end of September 2023, the exact timeline will depend on the process of sourcing, onboarding, and mentoring the incoming Chief Executive Officer. We want to assure our community that operations will continue as usual during this period.

Denise’s departure leaves an immense void in the organisation, but her spirit, values, and commitment to animal welfare will continue to inspire the entire team. Her extraordinary leadership, strategic thinking, and heartfelt kindness have set a standard that will continue to guide AWLQ in the future.

AWLQ extends their deepest gratitude to Denise for her unparalleled dedication and the profound impact she has made. As we celebrate Denise’s incredible career and wish her well on her new journey, AWLQ invites the community to join them in paying tribute to her extraordinary service.

AWLQ remain committed to the mission Denise has nurtured over the past three decades. The organisation thanks the Gold Coast for their continued dedication to the welfare of animals and AWLQ.

–ENDS–

Image assets are available here.

For all media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Craig Montgomery
Communications & PR Manager
0424 382 727

About Animal Welfare League Queensland

Founded in 1959, AWLQ has become a trusted leader in animal welfare. We provide a safe haven and second chance for more than 10,000 stray and homeless animals annually. To each of these animals we welcome through our doors, we promise never to euthanise a healthy, sociable, or treatable animal in our care. In addition to our shelter work, we are committed to keeping pets and people together by providing lifesaving support and resources to people in need with companion animals. We are known for our grassroots and innovative community-based animal welfare work, including our community vet clinics, Getting to Zero, Golden Hearts Seniors’ Support Program and the National Desexing Network.