She’s often the first point of contact for local cancer sufferers and their families seeking support, as patient liaison for Deniliquin CanAssist.
She is known for her dedication to and compassion for her community.
And now the rest of Australia has caught on.
Bianca was nominated for Country Style magazine’s inaugural Legends of the Land Awards.
The magazine rewarded her efforts by naming her the winner of the Local Hero Award.
The Local Hero Award goes to an individual or organisation that gives back to their community in a meaningful way.
The award recipients were announced in the magazine’s September issue, which hit the news stands last week.
Four of its pages are dedicated to Bianca, who will receive a custom hand-thrown vase and a Robert Gordon Australian made dinner as her prize.
The article, and the award, recognise Bianca’s role as a co-founder and tireless volunteer for Deniliquin’s CanAssist branch, where she goes above and beyond to raise up our community in the face of adversity.
“The challenges that some people have to face and overcome is nothing short of amazing - it’s so rewarding to be able to ease some of the stress they’re facing,” Bianca told Country Style.
Bianca does not have to dig too deep to find empathy for those reaching out to CanAssist.
She has battled cancer herself, diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 33.
Both her mother Val Nisbet and grandmother Dorothy Turner also had breast cancer, diagnosed at ages 37 and 34 respectively. Both lost their battles soon after diagnosis.
Three surgeries, several rounds of chemotherapy and nine years later, things are looking much more positive for Bianca.
But through it all, she still found time to give to others.
As well as volunteering for CanAssist, Bianca supports husband Rod on their mixed crop and livestock farm, she is a loving mum to Austin and Olivia, and a part-time optical assistant at Deniliquin Eyecare.
Impressive for someone who is still only 42.
Bianca’s past experiences with cancer is also why she was on board immediately when the idea to start a Deniliquin CanAssist branch was raised.
She and friend Kellie Crossley, who is branch president, co-founded the local branch in 2017.
Deniliquin CanAssist is one of 55 grass roots community based organisations across NSW.
The branches provide accommodation, and practical, emotional and financial support to those who find themselves in need.
“We are volunteer-based and unique in that all money raised stays local, not one cent leaves our town,” Bianca highlighted.
“Each of us involved in Deniliquin CanAssist would like to thank the community, local businesses, sporting clubs and individuals for their ongoing support through donations and fundraising events.
“The most important message we want to get out there is that anyone can access our services and support.
“It is not means tested, and everyone is deserving of assistance when you need it the most.”
Anyone who requires support for themselves or a loved one can call Deniliquin CanAssist on 0455 097 676, email deniliquin@canassist.org.au or reach out through the Deniliquin CanAssist Facebook page.