80 years of activism: the legacy of Don and Paula
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 131 No 2, 2 April 2026, page no 6.
Across more than eight decades of combined activism, Wide Bay legends Don Mengel and Paula Nunan have exemplified the solidarity and commitment at the heart of the Queensland Teachers’ Union.
As they retire, the QTU honours not only their individual achievements but the powerful legacy they leave for future educators and union leaders.
Don Mengel: a lifetime of leadership
Don joined the QTU in 1983 and quickly became a trusted advocate for members. Beginning as Workplace Representative at Kingaroy State High School, he went on to serve as Secretary/Treasurer and President of the South Burnett Branch, Honorary President of Wide Bay Area Council, and a longstanding State Council Representative. His dedication to Union governance included service on the State Accommodation Committee, work as a Promotion Selection Panellist, and election as a QTU Trustee in 2015. Even in his final years of teaching, Don continued active representation through the emerging Bawi Yumbin Branch.
Paula Nunan: a force for equity and community
Since joining the Union in 1989, Paula has been a driving force for equity and regional leadership. Her roles across Maryborough, South Burnett and Wide Bay branches, her advocacy on Gandu Jarjum, and her representation in multiple school communities reflect her deep connection to members. Paula served as a Conference Delegate, Women’s Contact, and later guided the Wide Bay Area Council through the uncertainty of COVID 19. Elected to QTU Executive in 2021, she contributed to statewide decisionmaking during unprecedented challenges. Her commitment to women’s leadership was strengthened through the Anna Stewart Memorial Project, and she is a recipient of the Emma Miller Award.
A shared legacy
Their contributions are now commemorated in the Mengel Nunan Board Room in the QTU’s new Wide Bay office — an honour rarely bestowed on regional leaders. As QTU Organiser Scott Welch notes, their courage, dedication and belief in collective strength have shaped the Wide Bay region, ensuring strong succession and continued advocacy for years to come.