About Us
Women’s Cancer Support Inc. is a charity organisation dedicated to supporting women affected by cancer across SE Qld, Northern NSW and Scenic Rim regions. Our mission is to provide practical assistance, emotional support, and empowering programs that enhance well-being during and after treatment.
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We believe in the power of kindness, connection, and community. Through our welcoming place, Womens Cancer Support Haven premises, online platforms, local groups, and outreach initiatives, we aim to reduce isolation, restore dignity, and bring comfort to women navigating cancer.
Women’s Cancer Support – Gold Coast initially focused on breast cancer. However, after meeting a courageous member with ovarian cancer who carried the BRCA gene and also underwent a double mastectomy, it expanded to include women with all types of cancer.
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Today, we are a thriving community of over 923 plus cancer warriors and survivors, supporting each other as a united tribe. At events, we proudly identify as the Rainbow Warriors, reflecting the diversity of our members and our collective strength.
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The Women’s Cancer Support Inc is an official DGR Charity that provides funding to support the resources, events, and services available at our new HAVEN facility at Nerang.
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Our Story
Women’s Cancer Support – Gold Coast was founded in 2019 by Sandra Johnston OAM, following her personal cancer journey after being diagnosed in 2017. Sandra felt isolated and had many unanswered questions. Sandra wanted to:
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See real-life examples of post-surgery outcomes.
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Understand treatment costs and options.
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Learn from others’ experiences.
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Share the knowledge she gained through her involvement with organizations like GCPHN and BreastScreen.
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Sandra’s goal was to empower others by providing information, such as Medicare refunds for breast forms, and encouraging women to advocate for themselves through feedback and inquiries.
Meet The Board
Sandra Johnston OAM
Founder & President
In 2019, when Sandra Johnston started her cancer journey, she found potholes in the road and wanted to either fix them or make others aware of them.
She is the Founder of Women's Cancer Support Group Inc. and now in 2025 is still filling holes left by the system and teaching women to advocate for themselves.
Sandra was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2023 for 'Service to Community Health'.
Lavinia Rampino
Secretary
Lavinia Rampino is a dynamic leader with over two decades on the Gold Coast, blending corporate, nonprofit, and community experience.
A proud mother and business owner, she’s committed to smart planning, vibrant local economies, and a sustainable lifestyle, striving to create a thriving future for all generations.
Vicky Tran
Treasurer
Vicky Tran immigrated to Australia nearly 20 years ago and completed her Master of Business Administration from CQUniversity. She is a registered BAS Agent with extensive experience in business management, having co-managed her family’s real estate business for several years.
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Following her own experience with breast cancer and witnessing the challenges faced by many local women, Vicky was inspired to contribute more meaningfully to her community. This led to the establishment of a charity dedicated to supporting women affected by cancer. In her role as Treasurer, Vicky provides strategic financial oversight and works collaboratively with Sandra in the development of the Wellness Centre to promote wellbeing and empowerment among women.
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Lyn Mansfield
Board Member
Lyn Mansfield is a deeply committed Gold Coast community volunteer with over four decades of service across youth groups, schools, homeless outreach, sporting clubs and community gardening networks.
A devoted wife and mother, she has held leadership roles including Secretary, Treasurer and Grants Coordinator, securing more than $1.8 million in funding for local Not-for-Profit organisations. Alongside volunteering, Lyn has worked in legal, accounting, dental, construction, financial and retail settings.
She enjoys travelling, knitting, crocheting, sewing and helping others wherever she can.