Dinner in honour of Queenslanders recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List

Good evening, and a very warm welcome back to Government House for this very special dinner in your honour.

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.

Tonight we gather in a spirit of celebration and pride, and to honour you, a group of remarkable people who have made a lasting difference to our communities, our state and our nation.

To sit around this table in our State Dining Room is a rare honour, reserved for those who have distinguished themselves through outstanding leadership or through contributions of lasting significance. Tonight, as recipients of Australia Day honours, you take your place within that proud tradition.

Each of you has generously and selflessly served and enriched your communities, and our State, in myriad ways.  

Tonight offers us the opportunity to learn more about one another’s stories… about the dedication behind Professor Wanna AO’s influence in public policy and education; Justice Logan AM’s service to the judiciary and the law; Mrs Leona Murphy OAM’s service to business through governance roles; and Mr Mark Rigby OAM’s service to science as an astronomy and astronautics educator.

We applaud your longstanding commitment to community — whether through outstanding public service, as exemplified by Mr Ken Sherwood PSM and his contributions to the surveying industry; or through sporting excellence, as seen in world champion squash player Ms Rachael Grinham AM, whose decades of leadership have enriched community life and inspired others.

Equally, we acknowledge the service of Warrant Officer Rick Scott CSC for his brave actions as a rescue crewman with the Australian Defence Force, and Ms Quinn Cramer AFSM for her frontline leadership with Queensland Fire and Rescue.  

And, from the Order of Australia Association, Mr Darryl Seccombe OAM, who, having served the maximum allowed term as Regional Groups’ Coordinator retired from the Queensland Branch Committee last month, having played a vital role in strengthening the Order’s reach and connection across regional communities throughout the State since 2017.

While you come from vastly different professions and backgrounds, each of you represents the very best of who we are as Queenslanders.  

Tonight’s dinner offers an opportunity to learn more about the inspiring stories and courage behind your Australia Day Honours and Awards — and to connect with one another, gaining a deeper appreciation of achievements that reach well beyond the words of any citation.

I wish to also acknowledge the family members, friends and colleagues in your lives — including those joining us for dinner this evening – who have supported you in your endeavours and who I’m sure are immensely proud of your achievements. 

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I extend my congratulations and deepest gratitude to each of you and thank you again for the remarkable and enduring contributions you have made and continue to make.

Please enjoy this special occasion. Thank you.