United Service Club Annual Patron’s Dinner

United Service Club President, Major General Darryl Low Choy AM MBE RFD; Vice President, Brigadier Michael Bond CSC and Bar and Committee Members; Veterans; Club Members and your 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 this evening.

Graeme and I are delighted to be back at the United Service Club, and I thank your President, Major General Darryl Low Choy for this opportunity to address you tonight. It is my deep honour to continue a tradition of patronage that began in 1933, with Governor Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, who saw this state through the dark days of World War 2, and who, on the 16^th of August 1945, took the victory salute in front of City Hall, and a crowd of 100,000 enthusiastic onlookers.

You will be very aware, that this year, marks 80 years since Victory was declared in the Pacific—and last month I was privileged to travel to Townsville to be part of this garrison city’s anniversary commemorations and celebrations.

At the wreath laying service represented by members of the ADF and United States Armed Forces, I spoke of a sense of fellowship between those serving, the countries who fought side by side, and the organisations that worked so hard to provide compassionate understanding and assistance.

Yet, also of immense importance in this vital equation of fellowship, is the benefit of encouraging a sense of belonging, driven by the very basic need for humans to connect with each other, to share ideas and to build friendships. This, of course, is the essential role of the United Service Club, which, while initially established as a forum to enable officers of the various branches of the armed forces to meet and gain knowledge, is now open to civilians, women and to the wider professional community.

In 1926, when attending a lunch held in his honour at 70 George Street, Australia’s Governor-General Lord Stonehaven addressed members, commenting that they were united by “common achievements, common recollections, common ideals and common sorrows”.

The Club’s first Patron, Sir Leslie Wilson, who was himself a twice-wounded military man, also understood the importance of forging strong relationships, built on trust and camaraderie, which were important both on and off the battlefield. Yet, Sir Leslie was also a passionate advocate for the preservation of history, which he said was “… a duty which this generation owes to the past, to the present and certainly to the future”.

The United Service Club continues to bring together these two essential elements. Since 1892, it has fostered companionship and the value of networking. 

And, while it has borne witness to pivotal world events, Queensland’s growth and development, and social changes that have shaped our contemporary lives, the Club has also placed tremendous importance on ensuring its own rich heritage is collected and celebrated.

To this end, I congratulate those member volunteers in the History Interest Group who show such enthusiasm for exploring this Club’s stories. By understanding more about the incredible people who have visited the Club and contributed to its fortunes over the years, you are strengthening the ties that connect the United Service Club to the future, enabling you to remain true to the foundational principles, yet malleable enough to adapt as required.

I know, that just as Graeme and I enjoyed our wedding reception held here 25 years ago, and as Graeme continues to be a loyal, long-serving member, this remarkable historic building has offered comfort and connection to many, including, of course, Sir Leslie—who was presented with Life Membership at his farewell cocktail party.

And as we reflect on the service and sacrifice of those in our armed forces who have given so much to ensure our safety and freedom, and as we mark eight decades since the end of World War 2, let us consider that despite the changes time has brought, this Club has steadfastly provided a sense of solidarity for its members.

For this, I thank the United Service Club’s executive, committee, members and staff, and wish you all continued success.

Thank you.