Surf Life Saving Queensland’s 2026 Awards of Excellence Gala

Minster for Police and Emergency Services, the Honourable Dan Purdie MP; Deputy Commissioner Disaster and Emergency Management, Queensland Police Service, Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream; Outgoing President, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Mr Gerard O’Brien; Incoming President, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Mr Steve Barclay; President, Surf Life Saving Australia, Mr Peter Agnew; Chief Executive Officer, Mr Adam Weir; Surf Life Saving Queensland staff, supporters and volunteers; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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

As Governor and Patron, I am delighted to be with you all this evening to celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of members of Surf Life Saving Queensland.

This remarkable and cherished organisation is as synonymous with our beaches as the sand and sea.

Since it was formally established 97 years ago, tomorrow — as the governing body for surf lifesaving activities in this State — its iconic red and yellow has represented a reassuring symbol of safety and security to beachgoers.

With its 58 surf lifesaving clubs sprinkled along our coastline from Port Douglas to Rainbow Bay, and its more than 36,000 members, it is also one of Queensland’s largest volunteer-based community organisations — and this highlights a profound commitment to ensure a visit to one of our state’s beautiful beaches does not end in tragedy.

Every single volunteer has been a crucial contributor to the growth and success of the movement, bringing with them their unique skills and an unwavering determination to serve others.

Whether they are out on patrol, or manning a phone behind a desk, each member is to be applauded for enhancing the organisation’s capabilities and strengthening it for the future.

This evening we celebrate exceptional aptitude and bravery on the beaches; the generosity of those who impart their wisdom experience and knowledge as coaches and trainers; the innovators, educators and leaders; the clubs and teams who demonstrate the power of cohesion and inclusion; and those who are enhancing the organisation and its connection with the community.

These awards represent extended loyalty, compassion and hard work, and a deep belief in the vital role of Surf Life Saving Queensland, to the benefit of its residents and visitors.

Whether you are a young nipper or a life-member, your contributions are highly valued, and I congratulate all finalists and winners for your service to our state.

I also commend the Board, Branch Presidents, Executive and staff of Surf Life Saving Queensland itself, who with the support of amazing partners, sponsors and volunteers, are ensuring our state has access to the most advanced technology and equipment, and the most skilled lifesavers.

I take this moment to thank outgoing President, Mr Gerard O’Brien for his service, and welcome new President Mr Steve Barclay to the role.

I am honoured to have been the 13^th Vice-Regal Patron of Surf Life Saving Queensland — and as I near the end of my term as Governor of this state — and on behalf of its people — wish to express my gratitude for your extraordinary dedication.

Thank you all, and enjoy this opportunity to catch up with friends.