Brisbane Valley – Kilcoy Landcare Jubilee Commemoration Morning Tea

Member for Blair, Mr Shayne Neumann MP; Somerset Regional Council Deputy Mayor, Councillor Helen Brieschke and Councillors; Brisbane Valley – Kilcoy Landcare Association President, Mr Murray Oke and Committee; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I would like to begin by acknowledging the original custodians of the lands on which we gather, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I are delighted to join you in this beautiful part of Queensland, to officially launch the ‘Greening the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail’ project.

This very special initiative—realised by the hard work and determination of the amazing Brisbane Valley – Kilcoy Landcare volunteers—honours the late Queen Elizabeth the Second and her incredible 70 years of service.

Although Her Majesty is sadly no longer with us, the 70 trees being planted today represent her commitment to conserving the Indigenous forests of the Commonwealth for future generations, as part of her inspirational legacy.

And as these eucalypts grow and flourish, we will continue to remember her lifelong dedication, even as we enter a new chapter in the monarchy, with the accession to the throne of our new Sovereign, King Charles the Third.

As a Governor who places tremendous importance on the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders, I am delighted that this greening project is taking place on the spectacular 161 km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, because it is already such a popular destination for people of all ages to enjoy fun, energetic activity.

These trees will further enhance the trail for all users, and provide welcome shade, but, importantly, will also build a new habitat for koalas and other native fauna.

This work is therefore another significant step towards preserving our State’s unique natural assets, encouraging biodiversity and building resilient ecosystems.

I applaud the immense efforts of the many volunteers of the Brisbane Valley – Kilcoy Landcare Association who have given up their time and energy to see this project through.

I am so proud to see the community coming together to protect and improve their local environment—which has been Landcare’s focus since its inception more than 30 years ago.

Your enthusiastic volunteers, alongside members of Conservation Volunteers Australia, demonstrate what is possible when people share a common purpose and are prepared to get involved to create positive change.

I am thrilled that this event is taking place on the UN’s International Day of Rural Women, as I can also acknowledge the crucial role that women and girls make to the vitality and success of country regions like yours.

Congratulations to you all, with special thanks also to the Somerset Regional Council and the Queensland and Federal Governments for supporting such a worthy project.

I am looking forward to unveiling the commemorative plaque and planting the first of today’s 70 trees, as we anticipate 700 more to follow in Autumn 2023!

Thank you.