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27th Governor of Queensland Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM

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Dinner for Council of Chief Justices of Australia and New Zealand

Chief Justices and your partners; Chief Executive & Principal Registrar of the High Court of Australia, Ms Phillipa Lynch PSM; distinguished guests, welcome.

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

The Council of Chief Justices of Australia and New Zealand last gathered here at Queensland’s Government House six years ago as guests of my predecessor as Governor, the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs Kaye de Jersey.

In this 30th anniversary year of the establishment of the Council, it is a great pleasure for Graeme and me to welcome back several of you who were here on that occasion in 2017 and to extend a warm Queensland welcome to those who are visiting Fernberg for the first time.

Queensland has had 27 Governors since it became an independent colony more than 160 years ago. The majority of those men and women were appointed after successful military, administrative or diplomatic careers, but I am pleased to say that the roll call of our former Governors also includes three distinguished former Chief Justices of the Supreme Court of Queensland: Sir Alan Mansfield, Sir Walter Campbell and, most recently, Paul de Jersey, who served in the role for more than 15 years before becoming Queensland’s 26th Governor.

While I of course don’t share Paul’s personal experience in taking part in your Council, I am well acquainted with the value of such a unique forum where peers can meet regularly to discuss matters of common concern, exchange information and advice in confidence.

For over 30 years and through 59 gatherings, the Council has repeatedly proven its worth and I trust it will continue.

I hugely admire the work you do, and this admiration also extends to your partners – some of whom are present with us this evening – who provide you with that vital personal support.

I know they too make sacrifices to support you as you shoulder the burden of administering your state or nation’s justice system, and I want them to know how much this is appreciated.

As Governor, an important aspect of my role is to act as an ambassador and advocate for Queensland, and I am proud and pleased that our Government House chefs have produced a thoroughly Queensland gastronomic experience for you tonight, showcasing the very best Queensland produce – and yes, Queensland does now produce some of Australia’s finest wines!

Welcome once again – Graeme and I hope you enjoy your evening.