Gail Hester is a pioneering advocate for cannabis reform in Australia, blending decades of surgical nursing experience with a personal mission born from loss and love. After her daughter Sarah passed away from bowel cancer, Gail channelled her grief into purpose—founding the Medical Cannabis Users Association of Australia (MCUA), which has grown into a powerful grassroots community of over 19,000 members.
In 2017, Gail co-founded the Canna Nannas, a bold and trailblazing initiative educating seniors along the east coast about the medicinal benefits of cannabis and the health advantages of hemp. Her warm, direct approach helped break down stigma and sparked national conversations around plant-based health care for older Australians.
Gail’s advocacy entered a new era in 2020 when she co-founded the Legalise Cannabis Queensland Party, she then expanded to Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and her home state of New South Wales. Under her leadership, the Legalise Cannabis movement has grown rapidly—securing five seats in state upper houses and pushing cannabis law reform into the mainstream of Australian politics.
Grounded in lived experience, compassion and evidence-based policy, Gail is fighting for a future where no Australian is denied access to safe, legal and affordable cannabis. She is transforming Sarah’s legacy into lasting change—championing a healthcare system that puts people first and a legal system that respects personal choice.
