Government House Queensland
Investiture Ceremony - 13 May, 2022 (2pm)
I begin by acknowledging our official guests; representing the Premier of Queensland and Minister for the Olympics, Ms Kim Richards MP; and representing the Chair of the Order of Australia, Mrs Kathryn Wooldridge OAM. It is also an honourto have The Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, 25th Governor-General of Australia and 24th Governor of Queensland with us today.
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.
May I begin by congratulating each of the 20 recipients awarded this afternoon and commend you on your achievements, which we honour today.
It is important to reflect on the importance we place on this ceremony, on the receiving of these awards, and most importantly, on applauding the recipients for their achievements.
The Order of Australia was established by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1975 to recognise exceptional members of our community with the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service. After a deserving nomination, a thorough assessment, and the thrill of the announcement, recipients are welcomed to an Investiture Ceremony, here at Fernberg.
The room you are sitting in here today – the Investiture Room - has been designed, specifically for this purpose.
Investiture ceremonies have very quickly become one of my favourite duties as Governor of Queensland. Looking out and seeing not only the proud – and moments ago, maybe a little nervous – recipients being recognised for their achievements; but also, their delighted friends and family who are here to witness this auspicious moment in time.
Distinguished recipients, you are here, being honoured today because you have turned your abilities to the good of the community, and your community has in turn benefitted and appreciated your accomplishments.
You each represent a long list of endeavours that are as varied as your backgrounds and interests including medicine, community health and welfare, urban design, veterans affairs, horse racing, horticulture, theatre, volunteering, herpetology, education, and horse racing.
It is heartening to see the diverse ways in which you serve your communities; and I thank each of you for your contributions and urge you to continue your good service.
There has been a great emphasis on the issues around the globe, and all too frequently the negative can appear to wash out the positive. But not today. Today, is a day for celebration and we are reminded that your hard work motivates and inspires us all, to serve in whatever capacity we have to offer.
On behalf of all Queenslanders, my wholehearted congratulations to you all. I know you use your postnominals and wear your medals with honour.
Please enjoy this moment and the celebratory hospitality provided in the Drawing Room. I am truly inspired by everything you have achieved, and I look forward to meeting with each of you and with your friends and families during the afternoon tea.
Thank you.