Australia Day Speech

Premier; representing the Prime Minister, Mr Phillip Thompson; Ministers and Members of Parliament; General Scott Winter and senior Defence Force representatives; Mayor, Jenny Hill; other distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; girls and boys.

I too acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands around Townsville, the Bindal and Wulgurukaba people. I further thank our Elders for their Welcome, Acknowledgement and insightful words here this morning.

I am greatly honoured, as the representative of Queensland’s Head of State, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, to join you all for today’s Flag Raising Ceremony.

Graeme and I are very pleased our first visit to Townsville since I was sworn in late last year, is for such an important occasion as Australia Day.  

It is often said Australians are reluctant to ‘stand on ceremony’.

However, I firmly believe we welcome formality which has a clear and discernible purpose.

The ceremonial aspects we have witnessed today – including the excellent turnout and drill of all Defence Force personnel – underscore the importance of Australia Day in the life of our nation.

They also connect us to the proud military heritage of this garrison City, which helps create shared meaning over time.

We will also shortly witness the Australian National Flag and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags being marched-out by Defence Force personnel alongside Elders.

Together, the Flags will be unfurled with great dignity and respect in a powerful expression of goodwill and unity.

This spirit of togetherness really defines Australia Day.

It is my sincere hope it will unfold today not just at parade grounds, beaches and backyards around the nation, but in the hearts and minds of all Australians.

And while today is principally a day of celebration and reflection, I know you will all join me in sending our best wishes to our fellow citizens, especially in Queensland, who have suffered terribly from recent flooding.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys, for participating in today’s Flag Raising Ceremony.

It is vitally important we continue to mark important community occasions, as we strive to ensure the virus does not control every aspect of our lives.

It is also important, on days like today, to pause to acknowledge those people who enrich our community.

And so I enthusiastically join in congratulating the winners of the Townsville Australia Day Awards.

I further look forward to welcoming, with the Premier and the Mayor, our newest citizens at a special ceremony after this Flag Raising.

A very happy Australia Day to you all.