Outback Independent Living Ltd Community High Tea

Longreach  Regional Council Mayor,  Councillor  Tony Rayner and Councillors; Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Mayor,  Councillor Andrew Martin and CEO Mr Mike Lolback; Outback Independent Living Founding Member,  Ms  Margie Webb and Lead Community Connector Dr Tauri Simone; ladies and gentlemen. 

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Longreach, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging. 

I am so pleased I could spend time with you all during this visit to Longreach, and especially in this slightly hidden part of town, which represents a very creative use of space and I’m sure a real outback experience for those lucky enough to stay overnight! 

This morning’s gathering reflects something deeply important about life in the outback — that even across vast distances, communities can and do remain strong, connected, and committed to supporting one another. 

Outback Independent Living plays a vital role in making that connection possible.

As the peak body for people with disability in Central West Queensland, it works across communities to ensure people can access the services, opportunities, and support they need to belong and thrive.  

Your work is essential, because for people with disability — and for their families and carers—remaining in their own community matters. It means they can live with dignity — surrounded by the people who know and care for them and connected to the places they call home.  

Through providing support for NDIS access, pathways to services and employment, and the creation of peer networks, you are helping individuals living with disability not only to navigate systems—but to build fulfilling, independent lives. 

But just as importantly, you ensure that the voices of people in remote communities are heard. Too often, distance can mean disadvantage. But through your advocacy—working with government, partners and stakeholders — you bring forward the lived experience of regional Queensland and help shape solutions that are practical, inclusive and lasting. 

Your approach — grounded in collaboration, co-design and community-led solutions — recognises that the best outcomes are built alongside the people they are designed to support. 

Your vision—that people with disability belong and thrive in Outback Queensland — is a powerful one. It speaks to dignity, to inclusion, and to the simple but fundamental idea that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a good life, wherever they are. 

Today is also an opportunity to recognise the individuals, families and carers who are part of this journey.

Thank you all for the work you do — for the support you provide, for the connections you foster, and for the communities you continue to strengthen. 

I look forward to sharing a cup of tea with you today and hearing your stories of life in this incredible part of our state.  

Thank you.