Next Gen Care with GenesisCare
Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer celebrates one year of cutting-edge cancer treatment with heart – right here in our own backyard.
One year ago, something quietly changed for people in Noosa and Gympie facing one of life’s toughest challenges. GenesisCare opened its doors in Noosaville, bringing advanced cancer care to our doorstep – meaning less travel, less stress and a lot more support for patients.
The centre was the first in the region to offer radiation therapy, and in just twelve months it’s become a trusted local name for care that combines compassion with the latest proven treatments. From a complimentary transport service to a dedicated breast care nurse and even a pet photo ‘wall of fame’, GenesisCare Noosa is proving that the little touches make a big difference.
Centre Leader Ira Jahner says it’s all about caring for the whole person, not just treating the disease.
“We are proud to mark our first year of offering patient-centred, evidence-based cancer care in Noosa with a dedicated team that goes the extra mile,” she said. “Our nurse even knits beanies for those receiving chemotherapy alongside radiation therapy, and our pet wall is a daily reminder of the furry friends waiting for patients at home.”
While GenesisCare Noosa treats a wide range of cancers, its breast cancer services have seen particular growth over the past year. The centre’s dedicated breast cancer nurse, Jean Kelly, provides expert medical care, practical support and an understanding ear for patients and their families.
She runs the Breast Cancer Wellness Clinic – believed to be the first of its kind in Queensland – helping patients transition from treatment to life after cancer. Another standout service is tattoo-less breast radiation therapy, which is a gentler alternative that spares patients from having permanent
ink on their skin.
The GenesisCare team aims to give people the tools, confidence and support to move forward after what can be an incredibly challenging time. “Our focus is on transitioning patients from
cancer treatment to their new normal,” Ira said.
Radiation Oncologist Dr Bradley Wong says having treatment options close to home can be life-changing for patients.
“Cancer can be a challenging time for patients and accessing cancer treatment in your neighbourhood can ease the travel burden and the associated stress,” he explained.
For patients travelling from Gympie, that convenience is boosted by the centre’s free transport service for eligible patients.
“We know that a long commute can be a barrier for patients seeking cancer treatment. Our transport service aims to make the trip a bit easier for patients in need,” Dr Bradley explained.
Drivers Brad and Geoff have collectively made nearly 250 round trips in the past year and, having both experienced cancer and been passengers on the bus themselves, they bring empathy, humour and understanding to every journey.
GenesisCare Noosa’s medical team includes Dr Bradley alongside fellow Radiation Oncologists Dr Sophia Ly and Dr David Schlect, each bringing their own specialist expertise across a range of adult tumour types and some benign conditions. The centre also connects patients with clinical trials where eligible, offering access to cutting-edge treatments that could shape the future of cancer care.
Beyond radiation therapy, GenesisCare Noosa offers allied health services like counselling, nutrition and dietetics, physiotherapy and lymphoedema therapy – all designed to support patients’ wellbeing during and after treatment.
One of the centre’s strengths is its location within a cluster of complementary services.
Noosa Radiology and BreastScreen Queensland are on-site, and Noosa Hospital’s medical oncology and haematology services are just a short walk away, which means patients can have multiple appointments in one place, reducing the need for extra travel that can be exhausting during treatment.
What’s striking about GenesisCare Noosa’s first year is how much heart they’ve poured into their work. Not only are they delivering world-class medical care, but they’re also offering cups of tea, warm beanies, a wall of beloved pets, and a bus driver who’ll share a laugh on the way to your appointment.
It’s this blend of clinical excellence and human connection that’s already making a lasting impact.
As Ira puts it: “It’s the little details that can make a difference to patients and help them feel more comfortable.”
Here’s to many more years of care closer to home right here in Noosa.
