Council Portfolio: Governance & Finance
Background:
Born in Cairns, raised in Hawaii, Janene later lived and worked across Queensland. After completing her nursing training in Mackay in 1990, she worked briefly at Townsville General Hospital before travelling and working overseas. In 1992, Janene moved to Julia Creek as a Registered Nurse at the local hospital, where she met her husband Trevor, a local electrician from Milgery Station near McKinlay.
Over the years, Janene worked at Julia Creek and Richmond hospitals and did a stint of working as a barmaid in between nursing gigs. She was and still is actively involved in the local community through a range of committees and community service organisations. She and Trevor raised four children, spending eight years on the family property before returning to Julia Creek. Today, they own and operate an electrical and refrigeration, businesses in Julia Creek and Normanton. They also own and operate a hardware/electrical retail shop in Julia Creek and provide contractor accommodation.
Janene was elected to McKinlay Shire Council in 2016, serving two terms as a Councillor before being elected Mayor, a position she is now serving for a third term. She is currently the MITEZ representative on the Outback Queensland Tourism Association Board, Chair of the Overlanders Way Group and Deputy Chair/Treasurer of the North West Regional Organisation of Councils (ROC).
Passionate about giving back to her community, Janene values the experience and knowledge gained through her many leadership and volunteer roles. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, water skiing, swimming, fishing, cooking, and reading whenever time permits.