June 30, 2026
A commitment made by then-Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at the opening of the new Kingaroy Hospital four years ago became a reality on Tuesday.
The Premier had promised that Lady Bjelke-Petersen would be honoured in some way at the hospital.
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service chief executive Annette Scott PSM said initially the idea was to name a ward after Lady Flo, but after consulting with the community, it was decided that could be confusing as the there was already a Lady Bjelke-Petersen Hospital in Kingaroy.
Ms Scott said about 160 people responded to the consultations, which eventually came up with the idea of a memorial bench that would endure the weather and “endure time”.
The polished granite seat, made by stonemasons J.H. Wagner & Sons in Toowoomba, was officially unveiled in a small ceremony in the hospital grounds on Tuesday morning.
Lady Flo’s daughters, Dr Meg Noack and Ruth Cummins (and their husbands, Noel and John) plus daughter-in-law Karyn Bjelke-Petersen did the honours.
The bench is conveniently located for visitors, overlooking the gardens at the front of the hospital.
Ms Scott described Lady Flo as “one of the legends” of Queensland, who not only had a commitment to the Darling Downs Health Service region but to the whole of Queensland.
Dr Noack said her mother lived both her public and family life out of a deep faith.
She “showed up” and took all her responsibilities seriously, both as a mother and as a Queensland Senator.
She also “stood up” for what she thought was right, which is why she would cross the floor to vote against her party colleagues.
Dr Noack said Lady Flo also respected the human dignity of everyone, political friend or foe, and always offered hospitality to the reporters who would come to ‘Bethany’.
“She was committed to her family, community and her hardworking staff,” she said.
“We are all proud to be here today and to honour her.”
The opening of the Memorial Bench coincided with a visit by the Darling Downs Health Board to Kingaroy Hospital.
- Related article: Kingaroy’s Hospital Officially Opens
