Tuesday 13 August 2024

Representing the Minister for Police and Community Safety, Member for Cooper, Ms Jonty Bush MP; Australian Red Cross, Chair, Ms Helen Clarke, Acting State Director, Mr Collin Sivalingum; former State Director, Mr Garry Page; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I 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 any First Nations people with us this evening.

Graeme and I are delighted to welcome you to Government House to celebrate 110 exceptional years of service by the Australian Red Cross and, as Patron of Red Cross Queensland, I extend my congratulations to this marvellous organisation on reaching this important milestone.

The Australian Red Cross emerged during World War I in response to the need for humanitarian aid, and its Queensland division quickly became part of the organisation’s efforts, offering support both locally and internationally.

Its members became deeply involved in organising relief for soldiers and their families and volunteers worked tirelessly to provide comfort and supplies to troops. Not surprisingly, the organisation quickly established a reputation for dedication and efficiency in managing donations and resources.

That effort in World War I marked the beginning of the long tradition of emergency response and community service that has continued to the present day.

As the role of Red Cross expanded, several key programs were established, including health education initiatives and a blood donation service.

The latter was particularly impactful, addressing the critical need for blood supplies during wartime and establishing a legacy of life-saving contributions that continues today through the the vital contributions of Red Cross Lifeblood.

Queensland’s vulnerability to natural disasters is the stuff of legend and Red Cross’s ability to mobilise volunteers and resources quickly in times of need have made it a cornerstone of Queensland’s emergency management systems.

Three major floods have impacted Brisbane since 1974; severe cyclones Yasi, Debbie, Marcia, Larry, and Ingrid have all laid waste to coastal Queensland over the past 20 years; and bushfires have wrought havoc in many of our communities. In every one of those events, the Red Cross has been an essential responder, acting rapidly to provide affected communities with emergency shelter, food, and medical care as well as long-term recovery support.

Beyond disaster relief, the Queensland division of the Red Cross has instigated various community programs, and it has been particularly pleasing to me, as Queensland’s former Chief Health Officer, to see initiatives promoting health and wellbeing.

All of these community programs, including youth and refugee support and home and community care, have made a positive and lasting impact on Queensland communities.

The Red Cross plays an essential role in strengthening social cohesion in Australia, and on behalf of all Queenslanders, I once again congratulate Red Cross Australia on 110 years of dedication to alleviating human suffering and fostering resilience.

I also sincerely thank every board and branch executive member, and every employee, volunteer, life member, sponsor, donor and supporter for their ongoing commitment to protecting life and health, and to ensuring that every human being is respected.

Happy 110^th Anniversary!