Ask Kedron-Wavell and The Sands Chaplain, Nicole, what led to her career path, and she’ll tell you it wasn’t a straight line.
From her own personal experiences to professional roles in supermarket management and balloon artistry, every step led to her calling: walking alongside people in times of need.
“I didn’t always have the support I needed in my own life,” she reflects.
“So, I wanted to be there for others with practical support that would make a difference for them.
“I didn’t set out to become a chaplain, I just wanted to grow spiritually.
“When I started studying, I realised chaplaincy could be so much more than schools or the military. It opened my eyes to how I could really help people.”
Her path took her through roles in not-for-profit organisations and government agencies before she joined Kedron-Wavell in 2021.
With a unique and diverse workload, Nicole supports members and staff through life challenges – from gambling harm and housing insecurity to issues of domestic violence, grief, mental health, and loneliness.
“Often, conversations about gambling are the starting point,” she explains.
“But the real focus is deeper—connection, compassion, and practical support.
“It’s never just about one issue. If someone’s struggling with housing, I think about the bigger picture—where can they eat, have a shower, or charge their phone?
“If it’s domestic violence, I’ll connect them not only with counselling, but also with things like financial support or even self-defence classes.
“My role is to really understand the challenges people face and then support them in as many ways as possible.”
In 2024, Nicole’s work was recognised at the Clubs Queensland Awards, where she received the Community Support Services Award.
While the honour was humbling, she was most grateful for the opportunity to shine a light on the value of chaplaincy in clubs.
“To be acknowledged for the work we’re doing is a blessing,” she says.
“It showed that what we’re doing here matters—and it opened the door for other clubs across Queensland to explore chaplaincy too.”
Looking ahead, Nicole is passionate about deepening connections among members, staff, and the wider community with two new initiatives in development.
“I’d love to launch a Kedron-Wavell Independent Community (KWIC) Action Group—a monthly gathering where members can discuss community issues and explore solutions together.
“My vision is to invite influential community leaders, like local councillors or business owners, to join as guest listeners.
“And at Kedron-Wavell, there’s a beautiful patch of land that would be perfect for a community garden.
“My hope is to gather a team of members to manage the garden, growing herbs and vegetables that everyone can freely access.
“That’s what community is about—people coming together, sharing conversation, and making a difference.
“And being able to play my part in building a community that we can be proud of is a privilege for me.”
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If you’d like to connect with Nicole for support, or to express your interest in joining our KWIC Action Group or helping in the Community Garden, email kwsc_marketing@kedron-wavell.com.au or ask to speak with Nicole next time you’re at Kedron-Wavell or The Sands.
