Dinner for Queenslanders recognised in the 2024 Australia Day Honours List

Good evening, it is such a pleasure to welcome you all to Government House for this evening’s very special dinner.

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.

Thank you all for joining Graeme and me for this special dinner at Government House. We are so pleased you could be here, because it gives us the chance to hear more about the inspirational stories behind the Australia Day Honours and Awards you recently received, and of course, gives you the opportunity to meet each other.

The unique nature of our nation’s awards system means that nominees are drawn from a wide range of fields, and this evening, you are evidence that the selection process is working extremely well!

Yet, the differences between you also highlight a simple and reassuring fact—that throughout our society we have people working selflessly to improve the lives of others.

Our state and country are so fortunate to have people like you—who are prepared to face each day with a driving sense of purpose, underpinned by dedication, and willing to push through challenges.

Your contributions help build more vibrant, connected communities, where people feel valued, safe, healthy, and enriched.

And that is why it is so important we applaud the efforts of those who have gone above and beyond, because in discovering more about the vital work you do, we are also uplifted by such positive stories of achievement.

The investiture process fills me with pride, but also makes me feel confident that while people like you are active in our communities, the future of our state is bright.

Thank you all for being such worthy awardees and outstanding Queenslanders. I extend my gratitude to your loved ones and friends who have provided you with support along the way.

We hope you enjoy tonight’s dinner in this magnificent dining room, that has played host to many interesting evenings over its long history! Congratulations to you all.