Local Government Association of Queensland’s Awards Ceremony and Conference Dinner

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations the Honourable Jarrod Bleijie MP; Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, the Honourable Ann Leahy MP; Leader of the Opposition, the Honourable Steven Miles MP; Shadow Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Planning and Regional Development and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, the Honourable Cameron Dick MP; Members of State Parliament; Local Government Association of Queensland President, Mayor Matt Burnett, and Chief Executive Officer, Ms Alison Smith; Mayors and Councillors from across Queensland and your staff; Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Major General Jake Ellwood DSC AM CSC (retd); distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands on which we are gathered, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and all First Nations people here tonight.

Graeme and I are delighted to join all of you for this evening’s very special Awards Ceremony and Birthday Bash, which celebrates both the 150^th anniversary of Cairns, and 130 remarkable years of the Local Government Association of Queensland.

As I near the end of my term as Governor of our incredible state, I am particularly glad to have a final opportunity to express my deep and sincere gratitude to all of the Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Councillors, Management and staff, who, each and every day, commit their energies to furthering their local communities — many of whom I have had the immense pleasure of meeting either “in-situ” or at Government House.

Local government is absolutely critical to improving life for residents, wherever they may live — serving on the front lines when disasters strike; ensuring roads, water and other essential services are effectively delivered; and enriching communities in innovative and clever ways.

Within the Council Chambers are exceptional individuals who are building integral connections and relationships within the public and private sectors — to strengthen and enhance capabilities, knowledge and professionalism across all areas of operations .

I have now visited all 77 LGAs in our state, as well as the Town Authority of Weipa. My travels have taken me to places as diverse and fascinating as the people of Queensland themselves.

Each experience has reinforced my impression of the pivotal value of local councils to the vitality and vibrancy of their communities.

And there is no doubt in my mind, that I would not have been able to meet the commitments I pledged to Queenslanders when I was sworn into this role, if not for the support you have given to me, personally, and to the Office of the Governor.

This evening, we come together to celebrate the local governments and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding loyalty to their communities. We commend the dedication to serve over many years; the strong voices advocating for their people, and telling their stories; the innovations and initiatives that drive lasting positive change; and leadership that is determined to enhance life for all.   

It is important to honour your successes, because applauding such devotion to community is not just a well-deserved “pat on the back”, but such recognition also encourages greater cohesion and solidarity.

I thank the Local Government Association of Queensland President, Board and team for hosting this beneficial Annual Conference, and for so capably supporting the hard work being done around our state.

I also thank tonight’s award partners for their vision and generosity.

I am sure you have found this time together immensely valuable, and tonight’s Birthday Bash gives you a chance to relax during a very busy conference program of debate and conversation.

I extend my sincere appreciation to each of you, for striving to ensure that all Queenslanders live in safe and buoyant communities, with the services, support and opportunities they need to flourish.

Thank you and enjoy your evening.