Judy Smith joined Australian War Widows Queensland in 2013 following the passing of her husband, a World War II veteran. Drawing on a lifelong commitment to health and community service, Judy brings a wealth of professional and voluntary experience to her role.
Judy began her career as a registered nurse and midwife, holding postgraduate qualifications in maternal and child health. Her extensive nursing career spanned New South Wales, Tasmania, and Papua New Guinea, including roles in both government and community-based organisations.
Relocating to Katherine in the Northern Territory, Judy served as Director of community-based child care services and later as a Senior Officer in the Department of Health, overseeing Family and Children’s Services. In 1986, she was appointed Children’s Services Development Officer with the Katherine Town Council to assess childcare needs ahead of the Tindal Airbase reopening.
A passionate community volunteer, Judy has held numerous leadership roles since the 1970s, including President, Treasurer, and Board Member of various sporting, civic, and health organisations in Katherine and on the Sunshine Coast. She was awarded Life Membership with the Katherine Little Athletics Centre and served as Treasurer of the Sunshine Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Since joining AWWQ, Judy has served as President of the Maroochydore sub-branch (2015–2020), Director on the AWWQ Board(2019–2024), and was elected State President in 2024. She also represents Queensland on the National Council of Australian War Widows Inc.