Investiture Ceremony for Residents of North Queensland

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys. Thank you for joining us today for this very special ceremony. 

I begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and pay respect to their Elders past and present – with encouragement to their young emerging leaders. 

It is always a pleasure for Kaye and me to spend time in this beautiful city, and to be inspired by the enthusiasm and pride you hold for your region. 

We thank you for making us feel so welcome. 

Investiture ceremonies, such as this one, are important events belonging to all Queenslanders, indeed all Australians, because they highlight the qualities we value most in our society. 

These traits include dedication, bravery, innovative thinking, leadership, and above all, an overwhelming willingness to help others.

From the many thousands of nominations received and scrutinized under our unique Australian Honours and Awards system, yours have stood out. 

Your accomplishments are such that you have not only earned today’s ceremony of official recognition, but indeed, our ongoing and deepest gratitude. 

I know that for some of you, being the centre of attention may not sit comfortably. 

Yet, this occasion gives us all a chance to reflect on what it means to strive for excellence, when this excellence is not self-serving or narrow, but instead directed outwards, where it can do the most good. 

Together, you demonstrate the wonderful diversity of initiatives and actions, which help make our communities vibrant, resilient and united. 

Today we have shared twelve stories of dedication and courage. 

We have learned that the lives of Indigenous Australians have been improved by your efforts to bring about important and lasting social change, and through your support for indigenous heritage. 

We have heard how you have helped the communities of Mareeba, Cooktown, Cape York and beyond, to grow and flourish.

 We have discovered the meaning of outstanding leadership, through your efforts in the areas of law enforcement and corrections.

 We can appreciate how the wellbeing of our citizens has been enhanced through your service to education, and to the Anglican Church of Australia.

 And, of course, you have demonstrated that true bravery—where you have put your own lives at risk to help others—represents the ultimate form of selflessness.

Whether you have dedicated a lifetime to serving a cause, a profession or a community, or have reacted with valour and resourcefulness to a perilous and immediate crisis, you are here today, because others wanted to see your achievements acknowledged.

 This is a special day for all of us; indeed Kaye and I place great importance on being here with you in person to present your awards. 

I know that your family and friends are taking immense delight in the public recognition you are receiving, and I pay tribute to them for giving you support and encouragement on your individual journeys. 

Your energetic dedication is not only admirable, but also worthy of emulating. 

For this reason, in your future interactions with your communities, I encourage you to wear the pins and medals signifying your achievements with tremendous pride.

This is an opportunity for those you meet, of all ages, and from all walks of life, to be inspired by your example.

As Governor of Queensland, and on behalf of everyone living in our great State—in particular those in the wonderful North and Far North Queensland region—it is my great pleasure to congratulate you for your efforts and again, offer our heartfelt thanks. 

Enjoy the attention you are being given. It is well deserved.

Thank you.