The St John Queensland team is celebrating after the recent Australian Community Transport Association (ACTA) National Conference, where our General Manager of Community Services, Opal Halliday, took home the Exceptional Sector Contribution Award.
This national award recognises leaders who have made a significant impact on community transport across Australia. For Opal, it reflects years of work improving how services are delivered, introducing better ways to support clients, and ensuring dignity and care stay at the heart of everything we do.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
In her role leading our Community Services division, Opal plays a huge part in shaping how St John QLD delivers transport, accompanied activities, and social inclusion initiatives. Her focus has always been simple: ensuring vulnerable Queenslanders, whether living in busy metro areas or regional towns, get safe, reliable support that keeps them connected to their communities.
St John Queensland CEO Peter Warrener highlighted the impact of Opal's work across the state:
"As CEO of St John Qld, I am delighted to congratulate Opal Halliday on receiving the Exceptional Sector Contribution Award. Opal’s thoughtful leadership and commitment to service make this recognition richly deserved. It also reflects the remarkable work of our Communities team, whose dedication makes a real difference to people across Queensland every day. I know the whole St John Queensland team joins me in celebrating Opal’s achievement."
The Value of Staying Connected to the Wider Industry
While celebrating Opal’s win is a huge highlight, participating in the ACTA National Conference is also about staying actively engaged with the broader community transport sector.
Community transport plays a vital role in keeping people healthy, independent, and connected. Being an active member of ACTA allows us to share practical ideas, learn from other organisations, and collaborate on big industry changes,like adapting to the Support at Home care framework.
We know that strong sector relationships lead to better outcomes for the people who rely on us. Working alongside peak bodies, government partners, and other transport providers helps elevate standards, advocate for better regional resources, and keep our services evolving to meet real community needs.
Congratulations to Opal on a fantastic achievement, and thank you for everything you do for our team, our drivers, and our clients!
