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27th Governor of Queensland Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM

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Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s 50th Anniversary

Leader of the Opposition, the Honourable Peter Dutton MP; Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Australia CEO, Mr Mike Wilson OAM, and members of the Senior Management and Leadership Team; Chair of the Queensland State Leadership Group, Dr Leah Barrett-Beck; Diabetes Australia CEO Ms Justine Cain and representatives; staff, supporters and volunteers; ladies and gentlemen, welcome.

I begin by acknowledging the original custodians of the lands on which we gather, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. I extend my respects to any First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I are delighted to be here with you this evening, to recognise two significant milestones for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

January 11th this year marked the centenary of insulin treatment for diabetes. This medical advance has been ground-breaking in the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes and lifesaving for those living with it.

The second milestone we are celebrating this evening is the 50th anniversary of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the contributions of so many of you in this room, and the many families, researchers, supporters, volunteers and others who have come before you.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is the leading supporter of Type 1 Diabetes in the world and it has transformed society’s understanding of the disease. It has been a part of every modern breakthrough in care and supports more than 125,000 Australians who are living with the condition.

As you are well aware, a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes entails a lifelong commitment of monitoring and managing the disease, day in, day out.

As a Doctor and former Chief Health Officer, I am very familiar with the contribution the foundation makes, here in Queensland. This evening, as Governor, and on behalf of all Queenslanders, I commend you on your efforts and achievements over the last 50 years.

Both Graeme and I recognise the tremendous difference the foundation has made in supporting people in our community who live with this disease, and we offer our full support to you as you continue to work towards your vision of a world without Type 1 Diabetes.

Thank you.