Townsville Community Reception

A speech delivered by His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC as Administrator of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia: To our elected representatives here tonight – from all levels of government, Your Honours, Brigadier Noble, ladies and gentlemen, I acknowledge you all. It is so pleasing to see so many facets of Townsville community life represented here tonight – this is indeed a dynamic city. 

Kaye and I are delighted to welcome you here this evening on our fourth visit to Townsville in the twelve months, almost to the day, since I was sworn in as Governor.

I think that brings our travel record to a total of 39 regional visits so far.  

However, the numbers matter less than the quality of our time spent in regional areas, the opportunity to meet the Queenslanders who live there, and to understand their aspirations. 

Townsville is unique in many ways, but one of them is that it is surely the largest city in Australia named after a businessman – Robert Towns.

The city was established as a port from which the agricultural riches of the region could be shipped.

That enterprising spirit has remained strong as the city’s economic base broadened over a century and a half. 

With strengths in transport, manufacturing, defence, science, administration, health, education and training, and tourism, the city has an impressive economic record.  

Townsville also has a strong, active and caring community. It contributes frequently to the roll-call of distinguished Queenslanders awarded Australian Honours.

The city is well-known for sport and culture. You can enjoy the roar of the crowds at a Cowboys home game, the even louder roar of the Townsville 400 V-eights, or bring the decibels down quite a few levels and take in a chamber music concert. 

We ticked off that last item yesterday when we attended the outstanding opening concert of the 25^th Australian Festival of Chamber Music. And we’re going back for a second helping later tonight for the Governor’s Gala Concert.  

Clearly, the Townsville community has every reason to continue looking to the future with confidence and optimism. 

Kaye and I – above and beyond our substantial personal links with Townsville – have every reason to return as often as we can.

We thank you most sincerely for making the time to join us tonight.  We are delighted to be able to return the warm hospitality which the people of Townsville have offered us in the past year.

We look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the course of the evening.

Thank you.