Stanthorpe Community Reception

Mayor Dobie; fellow Councillors; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; and students. Kaye and I thank you for the friendly Stanthorpe welcome you have shown us on this – our second – official visit here. It is our pleasure to be with you this morning, as we enjoy the hospitality of the Queensland College of Wine Tourism.

We are grateful this wonderful facility was spared during the devastating bushfires that, last month, tore through your region.

While I wish we were visiting under happier circumstances, I know that your community is a strong and optimistic one; despite the compounding adversities you are experiencing.

Your courage is truly inspiring and epitomises why I am so proud to be Governor of this tremendous State.

Before arriving here this morning, Kaye and I toured with our Mayor, through areas in Applethorpe and Stanthorpe affected by September’s fires, including Caves Road, where several homes were destroyed.

Seeing how closely the flames approached properties, and the town of Stanthorpe itself, it is obvious this was a blaze of unprecedented speed and ferocity.

It is a testament to the bravery and skill of the members of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services that so many homes were saved – thankfully without a single life lost.

I know you join with me in commending our incredible firefighters – together with all emergency services, including the SES, and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Department of Communities and the Southern Downs Regional Council – for an outstanding, coordinated response to this catastrophic event. Indeed, it is testament to the strength of this region, that there were so many spontaneous acts of assistance from so many community members, community organisations and businesses. 

This morning, Kaye and I also toured Storm King Dam, which Stanthorpe relies on for its water supply. Its present depleted condition is deeply worrying.

The dire effects of this horrific, record-breaking drought are being felt throughout the entire Southern Downs Region, and indeed, in many areas of our State.

While lack of water is suffered most keenly on your renowned farms and wineries, this drought is causing financial hardship and emotional heartbreak for all.

Councillor Dobie has given me a detailed briefing of the many initiatives Council is implementing to both mitigate the current water crisis, and to provide longer-term water security through major infrastructure projects.

I am encouraged by your Council’s hard work and determination, as it works alongside local agencies, community groups, and all levels of government, to help find solutions to this complex and challenging situation – at the same time as leading the post-fire recovery plan.

However, the primary purpose of today’s reception is an opportunity to thank each of you, for your individual contributions to your community.

Your strength, and resilience are remarkable; your compassion for others is admirable. I know you have not lost hope.

I encourage people to visit the Southern Downs region – a unique and treasured part of our State – and, on behalf of all Queenslanders, wish you better times ahead, and we hope steady rains arrive soon.