Reception in support of the Whitsunday Regional Council and Community Leaders

Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Member for Whitsunday, the Honourable Amanda Camm MP; Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Councillor Ry Collins, Councillors and staff; senior leaders from local frontline and emergency services; representatives from the business sector, including, of course, tourism; representatives and volunteers from Rotary and the Lions Club; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands and waters of the Whitsunday region, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I are delighted to have this opportunity to thank you all for being such passionate advocates for the Whitsundays, and we thank you for making us feel so at home here.

We are particularly thrilled that this visit coincides with the excitement and vibrancy of two of our state’s premier sailing regattas. I know that Graeme, as Patron of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron—and a keen sailor himself—is relishing this chance to be among so much nautical action.

It is incredibly special to see Airlie Beach bursting with visitors, enjoying this week’s racing, but of course, they aren’t just here for the boats, because your region is fortunate to have so many amazing attractions for tourists and locals alike.

The stunning 74 islands and pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef are obvious drawcards, but along with a suite of incredible natural wonders, there are plenty of other reasons—both tangible and intangible—why people love coming here for holidays, or to settle down permanently. 

Key among these is a tremendous sense of unity that helps make your communities strong.

We saw this highlighted in January, when neighbours helped each other through the effects of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, but it is also expressed through volunteering, sport and local festivals, which develop a greater sense of pride and camaraderie.

As one of the fastest growing regional communities in Australia, and a significant contributor to our state’s mining, tourism and agricultural industries, there are also obvious benefits to those seeking to invest or build businesses here.

Yet it takes the efforts and vision of the leaders in this community to drive advancements for the future, and to turn ideas into reality.

I know that you have worked together tirelessly to ensure the Whitsundays will co-host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic sailing events, and I have no doubt, that when this time comes, your region will be shining brightly under the global spotlight.

Beyond such significant events as the Olympics and annual regattas, are the day-to-day affairs of life, and I also acknowledge your strong determination to continually improve public facilities, services, and prospects to ensure that the Whitsundays stay diverse, enriched and prosperous, and that the people who live and work here, feel supported and secure.

So, this evening, I extend my gratitude to you all, for caring so deeply about the Whitsundays and its residents.

And I must also applaud Mayor Collins for his suggestion to hold this reception, because as my term as Governor nears its end, this occasion enables me to meet a few more of the people who make Queensland such a brilliant state.

Thank you!