Government House hosted community lunch in Monto

Mayor Chambers and Councillors; ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys.

Thank you for the warm welcome you have extended to me today, it is wonderful to visit the North Burnett region for the first time in my official capacity.

I at once acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we gather, and pay respect to their Elders past and present – with encouragement to their young emerging leaders.

As Governor of Queensland, regional visits are among my most important duties.

They are not only a wonderful opportunity to recognise the countless contributions the regions make to the prosperity of our State; they also help me gain an increased understanding of the challenges you are facing, while of course sharing and acknowledging your many successes.

From droughts to floods and back again – Mother Nature has shown little mercy to Queensland over the past few years.

However, the strength and resilience you have shown in the face of these challenges have been truly inspirational.

Queensland is a vast and diverse State.

But the tyranny of distance, so famously described by historian Geoffrey Blainey in his book of the same name, only serves to unite, strengthen and bond our communities.

No matter where they live – in major cities or in regional, remote and rural areas – the people of Queensland continue to support each other through thick and thin.

I don’t have to tell you, of course, that the regions mean a great deal to our State.

It is home to more than half of our population, and it is where a substantial part of our wealth is generated.

Indeed, regions such as the North Burnett are central to our prosperity.

Building on their unique strengths, these regions drive and sustain growth for generations to come.

I acknowledge the ongoing efforts of leaders like Mayor Chambers, her fellow councillors, and many others who continue to devote themselves to the advancement of the North Burnett region.

We must remember North Burnett Regional Council was only established in 2008, and what you have achieved in such a short period of time is testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of the entire community.

Ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys: there is every reason to be optimistic about the future of this beautiful part of our State.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I congratulate you on your accomplishments and thank you wholeheartedly for everything you have done, and continue to do.

Your work is tremendously appreciated.

Thank you.