Dinner in honour of Queenslanders recognised in the King's Birthday 2026 Honours List

Australian Honours and Awards recipients and your guests.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbul and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to the First Nations people here this evening.

Graeme and I are delighted to welcome you all to Government House tonight.

I’ll begin by sharing with you that celebratory dinners like this one were first introduced by my predecessor, Governor Paul de Jersey, to complement Investiture Ceremonies, such as the one you recently attended. They provide an opportunity to congratulate recipients both personally and on behalf of all Queenslanders for their contribution to our state and to Australia.

I am proud to say that during my term as Governor, this occasion has become a tradition that we at Government House look forward to, especially our chefs, stewards and house staff, who relish the opportunity to showcase the very best of Queensland produce, service and hospitality in this historic Dining Room.

On occasions like this, Graeme and I are able to not only fully appreciate, but truly admire this heritage-listed house, of which we have been the proud custodians for the last five years. Unlike the purpose-built Government Houses in other states, Fernberg began life in 1865 as a family home with this dining room at its heart.

Today, it remains as warm and welcoming as it was when it was first built, even when dressed in its finest livery as it is tonight.

Since this magnificent table was first built, 130 years ago this year, no fewer than 20 Governors have hosted formal dinners for guests seated around it, and the Loyal Toast has been raised to seven different British monarchs by literally thousands of guests, from princes and Premiers to sporting legends and other exceptional women and men who, like you, have helped to make our state and nation what it is today.

We are indeed fortunate tonight to be joined by Queenslanders whose service reflects the extraordinary breadth of contribution recognised through the Australian Honours and Awards.

Among you are people who have led our frontline services; strengthened health and industry; advanced the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; preserved important histories and cultures; and made an enduring difference through community and voluntary service.

What unites you is a commitment to others. Whether responding to disasters, supporting regional industries and communities, advocating for better health outcomes, preserving our heritage, or giving young people opportunities they might otherwise not have had, each of you has contributed to making Queensland and Australia stronger.

Beyond recognising simply professional achievement, however, your awards represent the generosity, leadership and sense of responsibility that underpin a life of service.

And tonight, for all intents and purposes, you represent Queenslanders named in the King’s Birthday Honours list this year and, as Governor, I encourage you to become ambassadors and advocates for our unique system of Honours and Awards.

There are now no fewer than 60 different medals, decorations, commendations and citations that can be awarded under our system and they remain the highest form of recognition our nation can give.

I trust you will do all you can to ensure that others understand the important role that these awards play in creating a society that recognises achievement, dedication and service, and is guided by the fundamental values of honesty, fairness, and kindness.

Thank you for joining us here, and for all that you do beyond these walls for the betterment of Queensland and its people.