Reception for the Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland’s annual Honours and Awards presentation

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Deputy President, Mr James McClelland BM OAM; National Medical Adviser, Major-General Professor John Pearn AO RFD; Executive Director, Mr Paul Barry; State Manager – Education and Training, Ms Nikki Thornhill; Awardees; distinguished guests. 

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here tonight. 

As Governor and proud Patron of the Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland, I am delighted to welcome you all to Government House this evening. 

This special occasion, the presentation of your annual Honours and Awards, celebrates the spirit of service that has defined the Society in Queensland for more than 120 years.

This ceremony is indeed timely, coming so soon after the 135th anniversary of the founding of the Society by champion swimmer William Henry and his colleagues in England in 1891.

The Society’s mission remains as vital today as it was when it began: to prevent drownings, save lives, and promote safe participation in aquatic environments. Today, this organisation is universally recognised as Australia’s leading water safety educator–and a go-to for so many organisations seeking advice on everything from pool safety3 to evidence-based school programs and the continued promotion of vigilance around all bodies of water.  

And as we know, this State has many places where people can swim, surf, ski, kayak, boat and enjoy all manner of other activities that are not only fun, but hugely beneficial to our health and state of mind. 

The brilliant work you do ensures Queenslanders can enjoy these spaces safely, and that communities across the state are equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to prevent drowning incidents. 

Sadly, despite your best efforts, drowning remains a public health concern, and too many lives continue to be lost on our waterways. Last year4, there were 90 drowning deaths in Queensland, an increase of 36 per cent on the previous year’s figures. The 2025 National Drowning Report5 serves to highlight the vital importance of the Society’s ongoing role in reducing this number and keeping people safe. 

I want to acknowledge the Society, its Board and staff, affiliated clubs and centres and the countless volunteers for your combined efforts to address drowning prevention–particularly in high-risk populations, including First Nations communities, culturally and linguistically diverse groups and those in regional and remotes areas.  

In particular, tonight, we honour individuals6 whose actions embody courage, leadership and service. Some have saved lives through swift and decisive interventions, while others have contributed through years of outstanding achievements, service and commitment to water safety.  

I look forward to offering my congratulations to each award winner in turn shortly. 

In particular, though, I acknowledge the Society’s Executive Director Paul Barry along with Ms Jeannie Baxter-Reid7, both of whom will be acknowledged for more than 20 years of dedicated service and are truly amazing examples of the rich and remarkable community spirit that embodies the Society. 

As Patron, I thank all of you who are connected with the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland for the wide range of incredible programs you deliver to promote water safety across Queensland. Your work continues to prevent incidents, save lives, and helps shape a safer future for all. I wish you continued success in the years ahead. 

Thank you.