Moderator's Community Service Medal 2025 - Judith Hunt

The Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod Moderator’s Community Service Medal is awarded for outstanding contribution to the community, and on 17th July 2025 at BlueCare, Wynnum, Judith Hunt was awarded this medal.

Since 2019, Judith has served with unwavering compassion as an End-of-Life Compassionate Companion. Her quiet presence, gentle touch, and heartfelt listening have brought comfort and dignity to countless individuals in their final moments. Whether holding a hand, playing a favourite song, or simply sitting in silence, Judith ensures that no one faces the end of life alone.

Judith’s dedication extends beyond the bedside. She supports families with empathy and grace, collaborates with staff to enhance care, and engages the broader community through innovative outreach. Her creative initiatives such as organising remembrance services, coordinating donations, and promoting death literacy have fostered healing and connection.

Judith’s passion for community engagement has led to the creation of a box filled with hand-stitched felt hearts, which are offered to clients and their loved ones. This thoughtful gesture has brought comfort and joy to many, and the volunteer's encouragement of families to take their time in choosing a heart has created a sense of personal connection and significance.

The idea for these little hearts has inspired a wider movement, with another community group, 1000 Hearts, now making orange hearts for Palliative Care Australia.

Judith exemplifies the highest ideals of volunteerism: reaching out to those in need, advocating for fairness and dignity, and caring with compassion, creativity, and wisdom. Her selflessness and commitment to palliative care have made a profound impact on clients, families, staff, and the community.

With deep gratitude and admiration, we honour Judith for her extraordinary service. She is a blessing to the team and a beacon of kindness to all whose lives she touches.