Thursday 26 February 2026

Representing the Premier, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, the Honourable Ros Bates MP; Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland and Member for Scenic Rim, Mr Jon Krause MP; Representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Deputy Mayor, Civic Cabinet Chair for Finance and Councillor for Coorparoo Ward, Councillor Fiona Cunningham; Councillor, Division 4, Sunshine Coast Regional Council, Councillor Joe Natoli; Member for Southport, Mr Robert Molhoek MP; Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Brisbane, Dr RUAN Zongze; Chief Executive Officer, Trade and Investment Queensland, Mr Justin McGowan; President, Australia China Business Council (Queensland), Mr Steve Abbott, Vice-President, Mr Michael Choi OAM, and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Gerard Robb; President, China Chamber of Commerce Australia, Brisbane branch, Ms Qin Gao; Former Federal Minister for Trade and Investment, the Honourable Andrew Robb AO; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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

Graeme and I are delighted to be with you all this evening as, together, we welcome in the Chinese New Year—and the energy and enthusiasm of the Fire Horse.

Two weeks ago, I attended a New Year’s reception hosted by the Consul-General, and I commented then, that the spirit of innovation and invention symbolised by the Horse, thrives when we collaborate—sharing our ideas, knowledge and expertise.

There is no doubt, that in the arena of business, trade and investment, this two-way exchange is essential not only to harnessing new … …commercial opportunities that benefit all, but in building greater understanding, and fostering the cultural ties between us.

The Australia China Business Council Queensland, of which I am the proud Patron, is a valuable bridge linking our state to China—providing its many members with crucial information to promote greater success and ensuring our private and public sectors are better equipped to pursue diverse and exciting ventures.

Through ACBC Queensland’s extensive program of events, and strategic partnerships, such as that with TIQ—this connection links together business communities on both sides of the Pacific Ocean and over the past 50 years, it has created a network that is as strong, as it is dynamic.

In the same way that the Chinese New Year is a time of togetherness for families and friends, this event also gives us the chance to reflect on the importance of the special bonds that exist between colleagues.

We can celebrate the friendships that have developed through enterprise, the achievements that have come from determination and diligence, and the prosperity that is enjoyed by all, when great ideas are given the chance to become reality.

We can applaud the influence and impact of those in the business world who lend their experience and professionalism to further our bilateral relationship, and the organisations—such as ACBC Queensland, the China Chamber of Commerce and the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China—who support initiatives and provide such effective advocacy.

And we can gratefully acknowledge those in the Chinese-Queensland community who not only contribute to the economic fortunes of our state but have helped advance the broader objectives that strengthen relationships and encourage ingenuity.   

The Year of the Fire Horse promises to bring new adventures—shaped by a spirit of boldness and exploration, and reinforced by the qualities of optimism, intelligence and courage.

I thank the generous sponsors and partners for making this evening so memorable and wish you all a most prosperous and rewarding 2026.

Thank you.