Gala Opening of Glasshouse Theatre

Premier of Queensland and Minister for Veterans, the Honourable David Crisafulli MP; Chair, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Mr Ian Walker, CEO, Ms Rachel Healy; QPAC leadership, staff and supporters; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I, too, acknowledge 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 all First Nations people here tonight.

As Governor, I have the unique privilege of being able to speak for all Queenslanders and tonight, on their behalf, I welcome everyone to this official opening and sincerely congratulate and thank the Queensland Government, the architects, the Department of Housing and Public Works, Lendlease, QPAC, and the countless individuals who have played a part in creating this magnificent, world-class theatre and preparing it for tonight’s long-awaited event.

Seven years after the first sod was turned, despite the unavoidable setbacks of the pandemic, the floods in 2022, and the inevitable complications of constructing such a unique building, we can all be enormously proud of this latest addition to what was already an exceptional cultural precinct. It is a gift to us all.

Graeme and I were delighted when the chosen name was announced last July. It has meaning at so many levels:

• It reminds us that our own iconic Glasshouse Mountains are so named because their distinctive shapes resemble the glass-making kilns used during the Industrial Revolution, a period of immense forward-thinking and positive change;
• It reminds us that the Jinibara people and the Kabi Kabi First Nations have been telling the story of father Tibrogargan, mother Beerwah and their children for countless generations; and
• It reminds us that glasshouses, like theatres, have been places where life and creativity have flourished, despite adversity, since Roman times.

This area of Brisbane, near Kurilpa Point, has been a gathering place for First Nations people for thousands of years.

Its abundant resources have brought people here from throughout the region to trade, celebrate, and share stories and ceremonies.

That rich tradition of community and creativity is perpetuated in this latest addition to the precinct.

Welcome to the Glasshouse!