Meet the team: Shae Gaffney

For team leader Shae, building trust and strong relationships is at the heart of quality support, particularly in close-knit communities. 

Based on Palm Island, Shae leads a team delivering tailored care to support recipients to remain connected to their community, strengthen their independence and work towards their individual goals.  

According to Shae, a big part of her role is creating an environment where recipients feel heard, respected and empowered. 

“I support our team on Palm Island to deliver culturally respectful, person-centred care that empowers recipients to stay connected, independent, and engaged within their community,” said Shae. 

“Working closely with employees, recipients and families, I am focused on ensuring support is both meaningful and responsive to the needs of the community.” 
 
Originally from the Gold Coast, Shae relocated to North Queensland with her now wife in late 2025. She joined selectability as a lifestyle support worker before progressing into her current role just six months later. 
 
Before entering the community services sector, Shae spent many years in leadership positions, including managing a fast-food restaurant for almost a decade and running her own business for more than 10 years. While those experiences developed her leadership skills, she knew she wanted a career centred on helping others. 
 
“After many years in leadership and running my own business, I realised I wanted a career where I could make a genuine difference in people’s lives. 
 
“Supporting others, building meaningful connections, and giving back to the community inspired me to move into the disability and community services sector.” 
 
Since joining selectability, Shae says one of the most rewarding parts of her role has been becoming part of the Palm Island community and seeing the positive impact that genuine relationships can have. 
 
“What I love most about working at selectability is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference within the Palm Island community. 
 
“The best part of my role is building genuine connections with recipients, families, staff, and community members while supporting people to feel empowered, included, and valued. 
 
“One of the most important things I have learned is the value of empathy, patience and building genuine relationships within the community. 
 
“Working on Palm Island has also taught me the importance of culturally respectful care, teamwork and ensuring every person feels heard, supported and valued.” 
 
For those considering a career in the sector, Shae encourages them to embrace the opportunity with an open mind. 
 
“Be open-minded, compassionate, and willing to learn from both the people you support and the community around you. 
 
“This sector can be challenging at times, but it is also incredibly rewarding and gives you the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.” 
 
Outside of work, Shae enjoys spending time with her wife, being involved in the local community and continuing to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. 
 
Through her leadership on Palm Island, Shae is helping strengthen connections between recipients, employees and the wider community, ensuring support is delivered with respect, compassion and a genuine commitment to helping people achieve their goals. 

Find information about our Palm Island services here.