Paroo Shire Council Community Lunch

Paroo Shire Council, Mayor, Councillor Suzette Beresford PSM; Deputy Mayor, Councillor Rick Brain, Councillors and staff; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; girls and boys.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands on which we gather, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I are delighted to be in this very special part of Queensland, and thank the people of Cunnamulla for making us feel so welcome in the Paroo Shire.

An important part of my role, as Governor, is to support Queenslanders wherever they may live—to listen and learn more about the factors influencing our diverse communities. As well as talking to your Mayor and Councillors, I consider it a privilege to spend time with the locals—the people, of all ages, who make this town, and the other localities in the Shire, such vibrant, connected places.

Earlier today, I visited your health centres, meeting the inspirational medical teams who provide their expertise and assistance to this community and––as is always the case when I visit frontline health services in regional parts of Queensland––I was so impressed by their commitment and dedication to what they do. 

Of course, this same sentiment applies to everyone who calls Cunnamulla home, because the success and vitality of this place, relies on the contributions of each of its residents—far more than would be required in a larger town or city.

I know you are very proud of this beautiful outback region—with the influence of Indigenous people whose traditions helped establish early trade routes; the legendary stockmen who founded the pastoral industries that continue to underpin our economy; the stunning natural areas which are brimming with birdlife––and, of course, the artesian water that is the lifeblood of so many of our inland areas.

The years have brought challenges—including the weather event earlier this year that saw huge swathes of outback Queensland flood, with Eulo particularly affected by the rising Paroo River. Such major events disrupt livelihoods, as much as they destroy infrastructure.

But it is clear that this community’s sense of caring and unity is focussed on making life even better for future generations.

Some of the recent advancements include:

• The brand-new bike track in Centenary Park, which has brought joy to the kids of Cunnamulla;
• This year’s milestone 70^th Cunnamulla Show, which once again demonstrated the spirit of community;
• And last year’s opening of the Cunnamulla Hot Springs facility.

And I know that you are also very proud of young Henry Land for founding the Cunnamulla Emus Junior Cricket team and earning himself the esteemed Australian Cricket Young Leader of the Year award!

These sorts of highlights are to be celebrated, including, of course, the famous Cunnamulla Fella Statue and the Visitors Centre, which I will visit after lunch.

I commend the people here, and in the wider Paroo Shire, for your hard work and passion, and for contributing, so beneficially, to making our state flourish.

I look forward to chatting to you in person. Thank you.