Monto Community Reception

North Burnett Regional Council Mayor, Councillor Les Hotz and Councillors; community leaders; ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands on which we gather, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here with us today.

I am so pleased to be joining you this afternoon—in the magnificent Monto Museum of Art—and am grateful to Mayor Hotz and the North Burnett Regional Council for hosting this reception.

This is my first Vice-Regal visit to Monto, and as Governor I am determined to visit as many regional parts of our state as possible during my term, because it gives me the chance to meet people where they live and learn more about the places they call home.

You happen to live in a pretty special part of Queensland, and while you may be “young” in “town-years” compared to others in the North Burnett, you have a fascinating history that encompasses rich Indigenous traditions, an interesting gold mining heritage, and the influence and importance of agriculture.

Centenary celebrations are now in full swing, and I know that over the next few months, leading up to the 100 Year Festival over the October long weekend, Monto will be buzzing with activities, and bursting with pride!

Of course, visitors are spoilt when they come here—the visual arts are significant drawcards to the region, with the stunning silo art, shopfront murals, and brightly painted fibreglass cows, together with the Gil Jamieson collection and exhibitions in this gallery, attracting the appreciative eyes of many.

For nature lovers, the spectacular Cania Gorge and national parks are right on your doorstep. Yet, what most defines Monto, is its people.

You are committed to seeing Monto thrive—not just economically—but as a town that continues to value and develop enriching experiences for residents and tourists…

…and in times of difficulty, you come together to support each other with incredible kindness and generosity.

These close bonds—forged through tragedies and triumphs—make your community so much stronger.

While our trip here today is brief, I have already had the chance to visit your local library, which now has a copy of our Government House children’s book A Place for All Queenslanders in its collection…and we also dropped in on the Monto Hospital, because as a doctor, I remain passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of all.

It is tremendous seeing such valuable services in action, and each one of you here today is making a vital contribution to ensuring Monto remains the hometown you cherish, while encouraging a prosperous future.

Thank you for your efforts, and for welcoming us so warmly to your town!