Investiture Ceremony - 11 May, 2022 (2pm)

I begin by acknowledging our official guest; Representing the Chair, Order of Australia Association, Mrs Paula Penfold AM.

May I also acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, the Turrbul and Jagera people, and pay respect to their Elders past and present, and emerging. I would also like to extend my respect to any First Nations people here with us today.

One of my most important duties, as Governor of Queensland, is to invest fellow Queenslanders with the honours and awards they have earned as a result of outstanding achievement or meritorious service under the Australian Honours System.

I am therefore delighted to welcome you all to Government House, as together we celebrate your individual contributions to improving your communities and enhancing lives—contributions that are deemed so substantial and meaningful, that you have been singled out as worthy of receiving recognition at the highest level.  

What makes our country’s awards system unique is that anyone can nominate a person who they believe has gone “above and beyond” in their service to others.

This ensures that Australia’s highest awards reach into all aspects of our communities—into our institutions, our workplaces, charitable organisations, sporting bodies, and deep into the places people call home.

The valuable effect of this reach is that it unearths achievements that might otherwise have remained hidden. It is so vital we identify those who are making a difference, because not only does it give us the chance to say thank you publicly, but it also ensures others may be inspired by your leadership.

This creates an incredibly powerful force that strengthens our communities—reinforcing and encouraging the aspirations, ideals and standards we strive for as a nation.  

The depth and breadth of this reach is reflected in the diversity of the 16 award recipients we are honouring today:

—Those who have contributed significantly to the fields of medical research and education; engineering; the media and the arts;

—Those who have dedicated themselves to their sport; their churches; to Scouts, to saving lives on our beaches and waterways;

—And those who have focused their energies on serving their local communities, working with charitable organisations, clubs and schools to improve opportunities and outcomes.

Despite this diversity in the areas we are recognising, there is a common thread that connects you all—your humble dedication to helping others.

I hope you will embrace the immense pride we are all experiencing, because you have earned your place in this Investiture Room, and the special attention you are receiving.

I also encourage you to continue to wear your pins and awards, to demonstrate how achievements such as yours should not be overlooked, but are to be celebrated.

On behalf of the people of Queensland, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations.

Thank you.