Burdekin Shire Council Community Morning Tea

Senator for Queensland, Senator Susan Macdonald; Member for Dawson, Mr Andrew Willcox MP; Member for Burdekin, Mr Dale Last MP; Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Pierina Dalle Cort and Councillors; leaders in business, community, health care and education; Burdekin Citizen of the Year, Mr Scott McLean; Young Citizen of the Year and Youth Mayor, Miss Nicole Cervoni; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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

Good morning, and thank you for your warm welcome. It is always such a pleasure for Graeme and me to visit this part of our magnificent state and spend time in communities as warm and friendly, dynamic, innovative, and as diverse as those that make up the Burdekin.

Gatherings such as this morning tea give us the opportunity to meet with you all in person, to celebrate your recent achievements and acknowledge the ongoing challenges you face, while reaffirming our shared commitment to the future of this wonderful region.

The Burdekin is built on hard work and determination, evident in its thriving industries, vibrant small businesses, and strong community support.

From the sugarcane fields to the bustling townships, this region plays a vital role in building Queensland’s economy and identity. It is heartening to see the dedication of local leaders across business, education, and community sectors—many of them here in this room—who continue to drive progress and create opportunities.

I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable efforts of our emergency services and disaster recovery personnel, who have been working around the clock in response to the recent severe weather events.

The Burdekin community, particularly in Giru, has faced the threat of major flooding due to heavy rainfall and rising floodwaters. Your Local Disaster Management Group has been on high alert, working with various agencies to ensure residents' safety.

My deepest gratitude goes to everyone involved in the response efforts—emergency services, volunteers, and local authorities—for their dedication to keeping our community safe.

Like many regional communities, the Burdekin faces other challenges, including economic shifts, workforce development, and the impacts of extreme weather. However, I have also seen first-hand the remarkable way this community responds—with innovation, forward planning, and a deep sense of unity.

The success of the local agricultural sector, particularly the sugarcane industry, speaks to the ingenuity of local farmers and producers. Advances in sustainable farming and water management are ensuring the long-term viability of this essential industry.

Equally inspiring is the strong emphasis on education and youth leadership. Programs that empower young people, such as the Burdekin Shire Youth Council—represented here today by Miss Cervoni—ensure that the next generation is equipped with the skills and confidence to contribute to their community.

Furthermore, the ongoing work of community organisations in providing essential services, supporting families, and fostering social connections continues to make a profound difference in people’s lives, and often across some fairly unsociable distances! Your dedication reflects the very best of Queensland’s community spirit.

As we look ahead, the Burdekin’s future is bright. Strategic investments in infrastructure, business development, and education will ensure that this region continues to grow and thrive. Collaboration between government, industry, and community groups remains essential in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

This morning tea is a reminder of what makes the Burdekin so special: its people. It is through your leadership, commitment, and community spirit that this region continues to be a place of opportunity and progress.

Thank you once again for your warm hospitality. We look forward to seeing the Burdekin continue to flourish in the years to come.