Monday 18 August 2025

Representing The Lord Mayor of Brisbane; Councillor for The Gap Ward, Councillor Steven Toomey; Members of Parliament; Commander, 7th Brigade, Brigadier Giles Julian Cornelia DSM, CSM; Commanding Officer HMAS Moreton, Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa RAN; Commanding Officer, 6 RAR, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Cousins; representing the RAAF, Flight Officer Lachlan Unsworth; representing the Queensland Police Commissioner, Detective Inspector John Mison; State Secretary of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Mr Darryl Shipp; representatives from the Returned and Services League – Queensland Branch, Legacy Australia, Australian War Widows and other veteran associations and support groups; servicemen and women past and present; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I too, begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

This morning, we stand proudly together, to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Vietnam War, and all those who suffered injuries or illnesses that affected the body and the spirit—and which may have endured despite the passing of time.

It is just over 50 years since Australia withdrew its last troops from Vietnam—the members of the platoon guarding our country’s embassy in what was then Saigon.

This significant milestone joins many others in a journey that began in August 1962, saw over 60,000 Australian defence personnel serve, and by its end, had become one of the longest conflicts of the 20^th century.

It is a story that has continued to shape our nation’s perceptions of itself, and—galvanised by Sydney’s Welcome Home Parade in October 1987—saw the creation of this special day of commemoration, which coincides with the Battle of Long Tan—the conflict that resulted in the highest single-day loss of Australian lives.

In April 1988, former Queensland Governor Sir Walter Campbell unveiled this poignant Vietnam Memorial in Anzac Square, which—with its two soldier mates—is symbolic not just of the sacrifices of those who served, but also represents the bonds of friendship that kept Vietnam veterans strong while overseas and upon returning home.

Today, we reflect on the bravery and dedication of all who served, and who put their own lives at risk, on behalf of our country.

• We acknowledge the immense contributions these service men and women made during this war—and the incredible hardships they faced in combat conditions that were difficult, dangerous and confronting.

• We recognise the challenges that some of our returned soldiers faced, as Australia navigated a time of tremendous turbulence and social change.
• And we extend our gratitude to the Vietnam veterans and their families who continue to work hard in the community helping and advocating for others, through organisations such as the RSL, Legacy and, of course, the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia—whose efforts in this state, and countrywide, have assisted so many. 

It is important we share individual stories and experiences of the Vietnam War, which give us such valuable insight into conflict, and the preciousness of peace.

This morning, on behalf of the people of Queensland, I thank the Vietnam veterans who served with such courage and commitment, as we remember, with tremendous sadness, those who so tragically gave their lives.

Lest We Forget.