Reception for Girls’ and Boys’ Brigade

It gives me tremendous pleasure this evening as patron of Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Brigade to welcome the awardees of the Queen's Badge and the Queen's Award to Government House. 

Queensland has a long history with Brigades. Boys’ Brigades was first introduced to Queensland in 1897, before Australia was even federated, and we have the largest Boys’ Brigade population in Australia. The Girls’ Brigade, too, has long and deep associations with Queensland, going back to the days before it was officially known as Girls’ Brigade. 

The Queen's Badge and Queen's Award are part of that long tradition. They are an international award, and the pinnacle achievement for Brigaders. 

And so I'd like to congratulate the awardees on the successful completion of their journey.

For it is a journey, one which is not easy to complete. 

Those of you who have supported these young people along the way know exactly what I'm talking about, because you have seen the years of effort and determination that these young people have put in.

These awards are not easy to achieve. They require commitment, dedication and a great deal of time. 

Recipients must demonstrate leadership, teamwork, research skills, a sense of responsibility for self and others, and a heart for service. They have to be active volunteers, and be involved in the community. 

It is wonderful that we have such community-minded young people. They are an enormous credit to themselves, and will be a credit to their employers and communities as they take their place in the world.

Parents, you are to be congratulated on your children's achievements, which they could not have attained without your support.

Congratulations go out to the Brigade leaders, as well, without whom Brigades would not exist. We thank you for your investment in these amazing young people. 

I hope that you all enjoy the hospitality of Government House. Brigaders, take the opportunity to share your experiences with your fellow awardees. Remember this night as a culmination of long and faithful work. You have done very well indeed.