By JOLENE OGLE
THE death of a Pomona mother of two and long-time Noosa Council employee has shocked and saddened the community.
Julianne Dunkinson was at her weekly line dancing class on Thursday night, but was rushed to hospital on Friday after becoming ill at work.
The 37-year-old single mother of sons, 13 and 17, died from meningococcal disease less than 48 hours later.
Stepping in Line teacher and friend Cathy Breed said Julianne was her normal bubbly self at class on Thursday.
Cathy said Julianne, who had been with the group for over five years, would be deeply missed by the group who considered the members as family.
“Losing Julianne is like losing a family member,” Cathy said.
“She was always happy and always laughing. She was so generous and kind and lived to dance. When she couldn’t dance part of her was missing.”
Cathy said Julianne would always dance in the back corner of the room at line dancing class so if anyone in the middle didn’t know the steps, they could look to her.
“She will be missed in more ways than one,” Cathy said. “Julianne is a very special lady.”
Noosa Council CEO Brett de Chastel said Noosa Council was deeply saddened by the loss of one of its long-serving staff members and described Julianne as a friend as well as a colleague to many at the council, having been with the organisation for more than 20 years.
“She was part of our Noosa Council family,” Mr de Chastel said.
“She will be remembered for her love of helping others, her keen role in organising council’s social club and the many friendships she formed during her long working career with council.”
Mr de Chastel said Julianne would be dearly missed and council’s thoughts were with her family through this difficult time.
Council has been working with Queensland Health to explain that the risk to other staff is extremely low and health and other professionals have been on hand since Monday to talk with staff and answer any concerns they may have.
No staff have reported any symptoms of meningococcal disease.
Meningococcal Australia said about 10 per cent of victims would die and around 20 per cent would have permanent disabilities including loss of fingers, toes and limbs, so it was important to recognise the symptoms as soon as possible.
Symptoms include a fever, vomiting, lack of energy, confusion, dizziness, irritability, and a sore throat.
A distinctive rash can also appear and is a critical symptom of deadly septicaemia that can start as a simple spot or blister anywhere on the body.
Meningococcal Australia said it was important not to wait until a rash appeared before seeking treatment, as the rash signified a critical stage of the disease.
If you or anyone you know thinks they may have meningococcal, seek treatment and advice from your doctor immediately.
