Dinner in Support of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Organising Committee

Premier, Minister, Lord Mayor, Board members and CEO of the Brisbane Organising Committee for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, good evening.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Thank you all for joining Graeme and me this evening at Government House. Tonight’s dinner is our way of thanking you for your efforts in overseeing the mammoth task of planning, organising and delivering the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

We are very glad you could be here—particularly when your roles are so demanding.

In just over 3,000 days’ time, Queensland will take centre stage in a performance that is sure to generate significant excitement, drama, and emotion.

As the world’s biggest multi-sports event, the Olympic and Paralympic Games will involve a combined 24,000 athletes and officials, attract huge numbers of visitors to our city and State, and will be broadcast to a massive global audience.

But, of course, the Olympics is about so much more than sport—incredible though the athletes are. It is a rare and valuable opportunity for the nations of the world to come together to share an experience that is like no other, and it is a time when our beautiful State, with our enviable lifestyle and rich culture, will be on show for all to see.

Of course, between now and then, there is much work to be done, and no doubt many challenges to be overcome, and this is why your combined expertise, knowledge and perspectives are so important.

You are responsible for managing the tangible—the facilities, the ceremonies and events, the accommodation, transport and volunteers—which is a huge job in itself.

But your efforts are also building a legacy for our State—one that will have lasting benefits for our communities that transcend the new and upgraded infrastructure that the Games will leave us.

As doctors and wellbeing advocates, Graeme and I very much welcome the positive impact the Olympics will have on encouraging inclusivity through sport and promoting wellbeing through healthy activity.

And as “A Games for All Queenslanders” I know that you are focussed on ensuring the positive effects are felt by all in our state.

Undertaking an event of this scope and scale requires collaboration, integrity and a good dose of courage. It is no small task, and so on behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank you all for your dedication to ensuring our state hosts the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the flair and unique Queensland spirit that will make us proud.

We hope you enjoy tonight’s special dinner, which features Queensland’s stunning fresh ingredients, of course!