In Conversation with the Governor-General: Part IV

You may have heard of ‘cultural diplomacy’ or ‘sports diplomacy’, but have you heard of ‘kangaroo diplomacy’?

In the latest instalment from a conversation between the Governor of Queensland and the Governor-General of Australia, we hear from Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC on how our Vice-Regal representatives can co-opt our unique wildlife into civic and ceremonial duties.

The conversation took place during the Governor-General’s brief stay at Government House, which is surrounded by 14 hectares of mainly pristine native bushland.

In a wide-ranging conversation, she and Queensland’s Governor discussed such topics as the role of Vice-Regal leaders in our modern democracy, the value of care, kindness, and respect for our people — and our institutions — and the importance of celebrating the diverse achievements that make Australia unique, in a series of short videos.

Have a listen as the Governor-General describes how she had been able to incorporate the beauty and uniqueness of Government House Canberra into her meetings with visiting dignitaries, and particularly foreign officials. She calls it ‘kangaroo diplomacy’.

Meantime, why not book your own visit to the magnificent Fernberg Estate, where Queensland’s Government House is located, which is home to many native species.

It’s been a while since a kangaroo was spotted, but during regular public bushland walks the Governor enjoys pointing to the many nesting boxed located throughout the estate. ‘Squirrel glider diplomacy’ perhaps?