Consular Corps of Queensland Annual Christmas Dinner 2023

Representing the Premier of Queensland, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament and Member for Greenslopes, Mr Joe Kelly MP; Leader of the Opposition, Mr David Crisafulli MP; Dean of the Consular Corps of Queensland, Mr Michal Horvath and all members of the Consular Corps; Deputy Mayor, Councillor Krista Adams; distinguished guests.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Graeme and I are delighted to be with you this evening, as we celebrate another outstanding year of service by the members of the Consular Corps of Queensland.

While I have had the privilege to meet many of you at previous events—including our recent Christmas reception at Government House—this special occasion gives me the chance to acknowledge all your incredible efforts, in supporting the countries you represent, and in contributing to the vitality of our State.

I know it has been another extremely busy year for the Corps—and while COVID-19 has finally relaxed its grip on the world, other significant events have the power to create challenges, across the seas, and locally.

This festive time of the year demonstrates, that regardless of our beliefs and backgrounds, we all strive towards the same ideals—of goodwill, harmony and hope…

…And, in the face of difficulties and barriers, it is even more important that we foster the strong connections that encourage greater understanding—as we help each other on the path to prosperity.

Queensland today is richly multicultural—with a vastly different population composition to that of 1855, when the first Consul was appointed here. 

Queenslanders now come from more than 220 countries and territories, hold more than 110 religious beliefs, and speak more than 180 overseas languages.

Our State benefits greatly from the influence and contribution of such diversity of voices and experiences.

I had the pleasure of attending events marking historic milestones and commemorations for several nations represented here this evening—celebrations which highlight communities that are thriving, enriching our State’s cultural life, and working to strengthen the broader links between us.

And I know that throughout the year, all of the 45 career and Honorary Consuls in the Corps have been hard at work, helping citizens in need of consular expertise, and developing new trade opportunities that will be of mutual benefit in the future. I thank you all for your exceptional service.

I also commend the Executive Committee—led by Dean, Mr Michal Horvath, and Vice Dean, Mr Peter Dowling—for its commitment to furthering the objectives of the Consular Corps of Queensland, and for honouring the global relationships that were first forged in this State almost 170 years ago.

Now, I am left with the happy pleasure of wishing each of you, and your loved ones here, and in your home countries, a very safe and enjoyable festive season.