Official Visit to Longreach State School

Mr Mayor; fellow Councillors; Principal, Mr Wells; staff and students of Longreach State School. 

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of these lands, extending respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders. 

This is my third visit to Longreach State School as Governor of Queensland. Considering I have also visited in my previous role as Chief Justice, attended this school as a young boy, and my parents both taught here, I feel like I am coming home! 

Sadly, my school days are distant. But this place still holds special memories for me, and I am sure – one day – it will for you, too. 

When I was at primary school, being appointed Her Majesty The Queen’s representative in Queensland was something I could never have imagined.

But, as I grew older, attending university and following a career in law, I learned one of the most important things you can do in life is to try. Try to do your best, try out different things, and try to find where you belong. 

Every time you try something new, you learn more about yourself.

This was certainly the case for our Vice-Regal Dog, Gavel, who features in a new book I will shortly be reading to the Year Ones. Gavel “tries” out all sorts of jobs before finally succeeding in his role at Government House.  

I therefore encourage you to get involved with the activities your School offers. Listen to your teachers, who work hard to pass on their knowledge and wisdom. Always help and support each other. 

Indeed, when your School was built over 125 years ago, it was largely due to the combined efforts of many.

The year before the School opened, community events such as fancy-dress balls and concerts raised money for the building fund. 

It was this local commitment that saw the School become a reality. 

Its spirit lives on in your School motto, “Good Deeds and Effort”. 

I see this same determination each time I visit Longreach – deep support for others and an enduring positivity – even as the drought continues and the impacts of this current pandemic cause widespread upheaval and uncertainty. 

You live in a truly special part of Queensland – with the wonders of the huge red outback at your door, and the fascinations of a unique heritage to make you proud.  

Thank you for hosting me, and to your Principal, Mr Wells, and staff for assisting with today’s visit. I look forward to presenting the Principal Certificates, and to spending more time with the Year Ones.