The Victoria League’s Festival for Commonwealth Friendship

Representing the Premier, Member for Capalaba, Mr Russell Field MP; Representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Councillor Penny Wolff; Commander 7th Brigade, Brigadier Giles Cornelia DSM CSM; Commander, HMAS Moreton, Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa RAN; representing RAAF Base Amberley, Group Captain Dennis Tan; Consuls-General and Honorary Consuls from across the Commonwealth and beyond; representatives of the Queensland Police Service; Chair of The Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship in Queensland, Mr William (Bill) Willcocks; Chair of The Order of Australia Association, Queensland Branch, Mrs Ronda Nix OAM; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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 today.

As Governor of Queensland and Patron of the Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship in Queensland, I am delighted to welcome you to today’s festival, which we are delighted to support by opening the Government House estate today.

As you can see, today’s Festival for Commonwealth Friendship is more than a gathering. The event represents a vibrant celebration of unity, cultural diversity and community connections. It reflects the values that have guided the Victoria League for more than 120 years, as it fosters friendship and mutual understanding across the Commonwealth, including here in Queensland.

You’ll see many cultures represented here today – from fabulous Indian classical music to traditional Polish dancing, a Maltese community art display, fashion shows, demonstrations and much, much more. Not to mention the exquisite merchandise and delicious food available for sale as well!

I acknowledge and thank all of the participants and volunteers who have worked so hard to make this day special. A big thank you in particular to you and your team, Bill, for your superb efforts in pulling together today’s program of activities.

I also acknowledge members of the Consular Corps in Queensland and thank you for the important work you do, particularly in bridging and strengthening bilateral relationships to help to generate unity and stability between nations.

And I acknowledge the senior representatives from the Australian Defence Force and Queensland Police Service here today and pay my respects to the courageous and remarkable individuals who serve on the frontline to protect our state and nation and preserve peace.

In the spirit of friendship, Graeme and I warmly welcome all of you to Government House and hope you enjoy exploring many of the wonderful cultural activities on offer.