Queensland Overseas Foundation Award Ceremony

Member for Bancroft, Mr Whiting; Director-General Curtis; members of the Queensland Overseas Foundation Board of Governors; ladies and gentlemen.

Thank you for your warm welcome this morning.

I begin by offering my congratulations to the recipients of the 2019 Queensland Overseas Foundation Award scholarships – Ms Georgina Ryland, Mr Elliot Lemmon, Mr Nathan Dunnett, and Ms Suzy Roeger.

These scholarships celebrate the achievements of gifted individuals like all four of you, men and women who hold vocational education and training qualifications.

For many decades, vocational education and training has played a pivotal role in the Australian economy by building knowledge and skills – by helping people excel.

More than four million students are currently enrolled in vocational education and training courses across the country.

They are preparing for a future in a range of careers and industries, including trade and office work, retail, hospitality and technology.

Many of us can testify that it is not easy to build the career you want.

It requires continuous learning, a great deal of hard work, and ongoing perseverance, resilience and optimism – often in equal measure!

Indeed, it is a most memorable day when you begin your dream job and start reaping the rewards of your efforts.

Some people rest on their laurels, they settle into complacency and do not realise there is so much more to explore.

Recipients of the Queensland Overseas Foundation Award scholarships are different. 

They look beyond the horizon and open themselves to a world of opportunity.

The scholarships enable them to discover that world, work abroad in their preferred profession, and gain valuable international experience to bring back to Queensland.

These scholarships are highly competitive.

Distinguished recipients – that you join us here today says something highly significant about your capabilities.

You have been chosen because you have the talent and drive to be successful, and to take your success to the next level.

As proud Patron of the Queensland Overseas Foundation, I thank the Board of Governors for selecting another group of inspiring young Queenslanders.

I also extend my gratitude towards the industry, education and government bodies who continue to support the foundation, and acknowledge QOF Global Connections Bursary recipient, Ms Leanne Morgan, who is unfortunately unable to join us today.

Georgina, Elliot, Nathan and Suzy, you represent the best our State has to offer, and today, as Governor, I congratulate you on behalf of all Queenslanders.

You have every reason to be proud, and I wish you all a busy, rewarding and fulfilling journey as tremendous young ambassadors of our State.

Thank you.