Legacy Gala Dinner 2024

General The Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC (Retd) and Lady Lynne Cosgrove; representing the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Member for Moreton, Mr Graham Perrett MP; Member for Greenslopes, Mr Joe Kelly MP; representing the Commander 1st Division, Brigadier Giles Cornelia DSM CSM; Commanding Officer of the HMAS Moreton, Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa RAN; Commanding Officer of the 23rd Squadron, Wing Commander Tanya Evans CSM; Commander of the 6th Brigade Brigadier Deane Limmer CSM; Victoria Cross recipients, Corporal Mark Donaldson VC and Corporal Daniel Keighran VC; Legacy Brisbane President, Dr Annabel McGuire and CEO, Mr Brendan Cox; Legacy House Campaign Patrons Mr Tim Fairfax AC and Mrs Gina Fairfax AC; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by also acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to their Elders past, present and emerging and to any First Nations people with us tonight.

As Joint Patrons of the Legacy Club of Brisbane, Graeme and I are delighted to have this opportunity to be with you this evening, to show our support for this iconic and incredible organisation.

It is so uplifting to look over such a large audience—because by being at this special fund-raising dinner, you are demonstrating your immense generosity for the life-saving work Legacy is doing for veterans and their families in our State.

The Legacy story stretches back more than 100 years now—it is a narrative that is deeply heartening—even if it was born from tragedy—and it carries a message that remains resolutely consistent, despite the changing dynamics of the world around us.

The theme for this evening’s event focuses on the Vietnam War—which until Afghanistan, was Australia’s longest war. From 1962 to 1973, more than 60,000 Australians served—15,300 of whom were conscripted. By the war’s end, 3,000 had been wounded, and over 500 had lost their lives.

Vietnam was a conflict defined by unseen difficulties—not just on the battlefield, where the hidden dangers of landmines and booby traps meant constant fear of the unexpected, but also at home, as Australians were impacted by the forces of social change that swept the nation.

For some returning servicemen and women, the experiences of Vietnam would leave deep psychological scars, which would not just impact those who had seen active service, but their loved ones too.

The example of Vietnam highlights why Legacy is such a valuable organisation, because it is determined to address the holistic needs of those it serves, understanding that wounds are not always visible.

To this end, Graeme and I were so proud, in June this year, to turn the sods of Legacy House at Greenslopes—which when completed, will provide an innovative collaborative approach to care that brings teams together in one place, with understanding and compassion.

This, alongside Legacy’s other practical initiatives, ensures that the more than 4,300 family members Legacy Brisbane helps across South-East, Central and Western Queensland, are supported in all ways and do not suffer from disadvantage.

The Legacy promise is enduring, but it relies on the continued benevolence of its supporters to deliver its benefits. So, this evening, Graeme and I extend our immense gratitude to all of you—the sponsors, donors, volunteers and of course, the Legatees—whose efforts help Legacy thrive.

And, on behalf of all Queenslanders and Legacy Beneficiaries, we congratulate the entire Legacy Brisbane team—the Board, Executive and staff—for your unwavering dedication.

Finally, with Remembrance Day just behind us, we pay tribute to those who serve our country with such courage and honour.

We hope you all enjoy this very special event.