Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Official Office Opening

Assistant Minister for Social and Disability Services, the Honourable Jane Prentice MP; our Chair Ms Margaret Walker and members of the Board; Councillor Vicki Howard, Councillor for the Central Ward; other distinguished guests; members of the Cystic Fibrosis family, including those whom Kaye and I have met and re-met over the last two and a half years. And I thank our elected representatives for their assiduous attendance at these important civic events.

As Governor and Patron, I was very pleased, with Kaye, to receive an invitation to attend the official opening of the new Cystic Fibrosis Queensland head office. As nearby residents, at least for the time being, we have the additional pleasure of also welcoming you to the neighbourhood!

And what inspiring neighbours you are! The Cystic Fibrosis story, inspiration, has really very deeply moved both of us over the last two and a half years – as we have seen, thanks to you, survival… increasingly realistic hope.

Now it may not make the front page of our newspapers, however the relocation of a head office is invariably important in the life of any organisation, and certainly this one.

The Cystic Fibrosis Queensland move from Kedron to these more centrally located Toowong premises also coincides with a highly significant time for the organisation, as the number of adults matches the number of children now living with the condition.

May I confidently assert that the increase in life expectancy for those living with cystic fibrosis confirms that the advocacy, services and research support provided by organisations like Cystic Fibrosis Queensland are making a marked difference to people’s lives.  

But such an increase also requires a re-think in the way such organisations deliver services, which I know is already underway, Kaye and I having visited last year the Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre at the Prince Charles Hospital.

For the people we met, and re-met, we will always remember that experience… wonderful human beings: older to the really young, and carers of the utmost devotion.

And now here in Toowong, I know Cystic Fibrosis Queensland will be well placed to continue to advance its mission and purpose from these excellent new premises. 

The most memorable moments for Kaye and me of the past two-and-a-half years have undoubtedly been interacting with fellow Queenslanders, all around our State.

A particularly uplifting occasion for us was the morning tea we hosted Government House to mark “65 Roses” month in May twenty-fifteen. Kaye was taken aback but very moved to be presented with 65 roses herself, from Master Alexander and Miss Abigail Bullock! 

That occasion really brought home to us the importance of the Governor’s community role in elevating and shining a light on those elements of our society – mutual support, respect for one another – which bind and uplift us all.

These are qualities which mark Cystic Fibrosis Queensland as exceptional, and as Governor and Patron, I thank the Board, CEO, staff, volunteers and supporters for their role in ensuring this remains the case.  

I do not think our people really comprehend the strictures of this condition. I confess I didn’t until a couple of years ago. And now I know that we must extend our most generous support and understanding to our fellow beings so afflicted.

Without further ado, it gives me enormous pleasure to now declare the Cystic Fibrosis Queensland head office officially open, and to unveil this commemorative plaque. Thank you.