Dinner in support of National Carers Week 2023

Good evening, all.

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.

As Patron of each of your organisations, I am delighted to welcome you to Government House and to have this opportunity to bring you together during National Carers Week 2023. When you depart tonight, you will notice this magnificent building awash in blue light, with Fernberg joining other landmarks that have lit up in support.

Tonight’s special dinner not only enables us to reflect on the importance and value of the incredible carers in our communities, but it also allows me to thank you and your teams for the immense contribution you are making to the wellbeing of all Queenslanders.

Through practical support and advocacy, you are directly assisting the most vulnerable members of our communities—those living with a disability, a chronic condition, or terminal illness, and those who are frail, have a mental illness, or are dealing with other major challenges.

This precious group also includes our very young, and with Children’s Week 2023 kicking off this Saturday, I would like to wish Mr Dan Marais and Children’s Rights Queensland a very successful and enjoyable event to come.

Significantly, each of your organisations provides crucial help to the families and friends who care for their loved ones—who every day generously offer their aid in myriad ways, while at the same time juggling their own busy work, study and personal lives. 

I am sure you would agree that carers truly are remarkable people, and while the scope and nature of their care may differ, they are defined by their selflessness, humility and courage.

With their numbers nationally sitting at 2.65 million—over 530,000 of whom live in Queensland—there is no question that carers in our communities are having an enormous positive impact on the vitality and strength of our healthcare system.

Yet, I know that many of these special people also rely on not-for-profit organisations like yours to give them valuable encouragement, guidance and advice.

Through vision, passion, expertise and innovative thinking, you are driving positive change, to improve and enhance the lives of others, and this is why the work you are doing is so essential, and so deeply appreciated.

I am honoured to be your Patron, and on behalf of all Queenslanders, I commend you, not only for the inroads your organisations are continually making for the people you serve, but also for your endless quest to “care for carers” with outstanding respect and gratitude.

Thank you and I hope you enjoy this meal, as we are always very proud to show off delicious Queensland produce!