124th Birthday Celebration of the Royal Australian Navy

Assistant Minister to the Premier, Leader of the House in the Queensland Parliament, Dr Christian Rowan MP; Member for Bulimba, Ms Di Farmer MP; Commanding Officer HMAS Moreton, Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa RAN; Commanding Officer HMAS Choules; Commander Arron Convery; Service personnel; Councillors; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to traditional lands and waters. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all First Nations people here today.

It is a pleasure and honour to be with you all this morning to celebrate the 124^th birthday of the Royal Australian Navy, and I thank Commander Apikotoa for inviting me here to participate in the national Navy Week festivities.

This Open Day, hosted by HMAS Moreton, gives civilians a chance to gain a valuable insight into Navy life, with all its possibilities and attractions, and of course its many duties and responsibilities. With the added drawcard of touring the HMAS Choules, I am sure it will be fun and informative for all who visit.

Importantly, this anniversary also enables us to reflect on the immense contribution the Royal Australian Navy has made to our country’s fortunes since it came into being on the first of March 1901, following Federation.

Since these early and rather humble beginnings, reliant for a time on a fleet of old and dilapidated ships, the RAN has grown and modernised along with the nation itself, transforming into a sophisticated and integral part of our Defence Force.

Over its long history, the Navy has served Australians with courage, commitment and determination in times of conflict and peace —"protecting our territory, our economy, our environment and our way of life”.

It has served Australia during times of immense global uncertainty, and in theatres of war as far afield as Asia and the Middle East.

It has also responded to humanitarian crises around the world, kept our seas safe from piracy, and ensured that our trade pathways remain open and accessible.

At its heart, are its people—the more than 16,000 passionate, capable and brave individuals nationwide who employ their significant skill and expertise to ensure stability is maintained in our region and that lives are saved during emergencies.

Indeed, HMAS Choules itself played an essential role during the devastating bushfires of 2019 and 2020, safely evacuating more than 1,300 people from Mallacoota in Victoria amid life-threatening danger. More recently, she has served in the waters of Samoa as part of a task force during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

This dedication to protecting lives and upholding our cherished national values is reflected in the deeds of all who serve. The Navy Cadets parading here this morning reinforce the same pledge to serve kin and country, and I know the family and friends joining us here are rightly proud of their achievements.

Congratulations to the Royal Australian Navy on celebrating 124 years and to servicemen and women in our state and beyond, who exemplify its traditions and its dependability. On behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank you.