Winter is coming, and Qld’s new top doctor has set her sights on shielding the state
Sydney Morning Herald
by Courtney KrukFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Dr. Marianne Gale, Queensland's new chief health officer, has made immunization her top priority as she begins her role. Last year, Queensland faced its worst flu season in a decade, with over 95,000 cases and vaccination rates dropping to 28%, the lowest in Australia. Dr. Gale aims to address this by promoting clear messaging about vaccines and encouraging community engagement. She emphasizes the importance of seeking information from trusted sources, such as healthcare professionals, to make informed decisions.
Dr. Gale's background uniquely qualifies her for this role. Born in Singapore and raised in Townsville, she worked with disadvantaged communities globally through Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), tackling diseases like tuberculosis and HIV. Her experiences in war-torn regions, including Myanmar, West Africa, and South America, taught her the value of prevention and resilience. These insights drive her commitment to reducing preventable illnesses.
The political climate during last year's flu surge added complexity, with Queensland leaders avoiding vaccine-related questions. Dr. Gale hopes to avoid such confusion by highlighting government support for immunization programs, including free flu vaccines and needle-free nasal sprays for children. She stresses the importance of collaboration between communities and healthcare providers to rebuild trust in vaccines.
Dr. Gale's mission is not just about numbers; it's about protecting lives. By addressing vaccine hesitancy and leveraging her global experience, she aims to ensure Queenslanders are better prepared for future health threats. Her work has broader implications beyond Australia, showing how leadership and community engagement can combat preventable diseases worldwide.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026