Governor thanks patronage organisations for their service to Queensland

Her Excellency has brought together representatives of almost the organisations she and Professor  Nimmo have supported as Patrons during her five-year term, for a special reception at Government House.

The gathering provided an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary contribution these organisations make to Queenslanders and to thank the people whose dedication, generosity and compassion help communities across the state thrive.

Welcoming representatives from across Queensland, Her Excellency reflected on the privilege of supporting such a diverse network of organisations, whose work spans health and wellbeing, social services, education, the arts, culture, heritage, defence, animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

“Each of the organisations you represent is connected by a genuine, unwavering belief in the ability to generate beneficial change — at the heart of which is a deep sense of kindness,” Her Excellency said in formal Remarks.

Through their work, these organisations protect and save lives, improve wellbeing, strengthen cultural connections, preserve Queensland’s history, build skills and education, and help create more inclusive and resilient communities.

As Patron or Joint Patrons, Her Excellency and Professor Nimmo have had the opportunity to champion this work, celebrate important milestones, attend significant events and welcome organisations and their supporters to Government House. Fernberg has also been illuminated in the colours of solidarity and hope, shining a light on causes that matter to Queenslanders.

The reception recognised organisations with longstanding connections to the Office of the Governor, including The Lady Musgrave Trust, Queensland’s oldest charity, whose relationship with Government House dates back more than 140 years, alongside organisations whose patronage commenced during Her Excellency’s own term.

This blend of continuity and change reflects the evolving needs of Queensland communities and the enduring importance of supporting organisations working to meet them. Vice-Regal patronage is a longstanding tradition through which the Governor recognises the contribution of community organisations, raises awareness of their work and encourages their efforts to improve the lives of Queenslanders.

Throughout her term, Her Excellency and Professor Nimmo have travelled to all 77 of Queensland’s local government areas, gaining a deeper understanding of the communities they serve and witnessing the vital role played by local organisations, particularly in regional and remote areas.

Her Excellency acknowledged the adaptability and innovation demonstrated by the organisations, as well as the volunteers whose time, commitment and enthusiasm are essential to their work.

“Volunteers are, of course, a crucial part of your operations,” she said, commending their generous and passionate contributions.

Reflecting on her five years as Queensland’s 27th Governor, Her Excellency said the opportunity to learn about the organisations’ work and meet the people behind them had been among the most rewarding aspects of her term.

She also acknowledged the many messages of thanks received from organisations in recent weeks, saying she and Professor Nimmo had read every letter and felt humbled by the kind words.

“Thank you for making my term as the 27th Queensland Governor such a joy, and for your partnership, support and shared commitment to serving Queenslanders,” Her Excellency said.

The reception was a fitting tribute to the many organisations and individuals who work tirelessly to make Queensland a more caring, connected and vibrant place — and to the enduring value of a tradition that brings the Governor and communities together in service to the people of Queensland.