Girl Guides Queensland Annual Adult Awards Presentation 2025

Girl Guides Queensland State Commissioner, Ms Susan Hayes; Immediate Past State Commissioner, Mrs Kathryn Pearson; Assistant State Commissioners, Ms Amanda Nicholls, Dr Natasha Montesalvo, and Mrs Cherelle Stager; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here this afternoon.

The Girl Guides Queensland Annual Adult Awards Presentation is always a highlight of my official calendar, as Patron and as Governor, and I warmly welcome you to Government House again this year for this important event.

It is always such an honour to don the uniform that signifies this role, and it is a visual reminder to me and others of the work undertaken by Girl Guides Queensland on behalf of girls and young women in providing leadership and personal skills development programs.

Such active social engagement not only benefits your organisation, but so many other members of our communities across the state.

Under the banners of Fun, Friends, Adventure, Empowerment and Education, Girl Guides are given rich opportunities to grow—building confidence, forming lasting friendships, and making a positive difference in their own lives and the lives of others.

As we know, your membership and volunteer base are made up of truly extraordinary individuals.

This afternoon, we honour those who have achieved the highest standards set by the organisation, with 26 awards being presented in recognition of their exceptional contributions.

These awardees really have adopted the maxim of being the change in their world that Girl Guides Queensland strongly encourages.

Guiding makes a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of girls and young women, offering them a rich array of experiences—from outdoor adventures and STEM activities to the performing arts, community service, and the simple joy of making new friends.

In addition to their regular activities, Guides are given meaningful opportunities to demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and respect for those who came before them.

This is especially evident each year on Anzac Day, when Guides proudly take part in the parade—carrying their paddles, banners and flags in honour of those who gave so much for our country. I always look for them as the parade passes by, struck by their quiet sense of purpose and pride.

Guide numbers in Queensland remain strong, with nearly 3,000 Youth Members and close to 1,000 dedicated volunteer Leaders and Adult Members. This is a testament to the profound value the community places on your work and the inclusive, welcoming spirit of your organisation. Sincere thanks go to the committed volunteers whose passion and dedication bring the Girl Guides’ programs and initiatives to life.

Congratulations to those receiving awards this afternoon, and I look forward to presenting them to you. Thank you.