Queensland Irish Association’s Saint Patrick’s Eve Dinner 2025

Representing the Premier, the Honourable Steve Minnikin MP; Representing the Prime Minister of Australia, the Honourable Milton Dick MP; Ambassador of Ireland, His Excellency Tim Mawe; representing the Leader of the Opposition, Dr Barbara O’Shea MP; representing the Lord Mayor, Councillor Vicki Howard; representing the Federal Leader of the Opposition, Senator Paul Scarr; Queensland Irish Association President, the Honourable Jeffrey Spender KC; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here tonight.

Good evening, everyone! Given how enjoyable last year’s Saint Patrick’s Eve dinner was, I was very pleased to receive my invitation to this evening’s event. I therefore thank the President of the Queensland Irish Association, the Honourable Jeffrey Spender KC, for extending me this opportunity, and of course, for his warm Welcome Address.

On the eve of the Feast Day of the Patron Saint of Ireland, and tomorrow’s special Mass and Lunch, Graeme and I are delighted to join you in celebrating the immense contribution the Irish have made to our state’s fortunes and flavour.

Next week, the Queensland Irish Association turns 127—what a remarkable achievement!

As the longest continuously operating national association in this state, I have no doubt that what has kept it strong over these years is the passion, spirit and determination of its members—as a reflection of Irish people more generally.

In November 1898, when the QIA held its inaugural dinner in its new rooms in the Isles Love & Co Building in Queen Street, the then Vice President Thomas O’Sullivan said that “while he fully recognised that the first duty of Irish Australians was to the land of their adoption, he saw no reason why they should forget the land in which their forefathers had struggled and suffered so nobly.”

The Honourable Thomas O’Sullivan was also a respected Justice of the Supreme Court, and a Member of Parliament, and his story is representative of the incredible influence Irish Queenslanders have had on our state’s development and prosperity, and to furthering the principles of democracy.

Alongside the qualities of humour, tenacity, poignancy and enthusiasm, Irish emigrants brought with them their rich cultural traditions—singing, dancing, music, and a deep love and ability for language.

Today, the QIA not only continues to uphold the principles of its own foundation, but to promote the vitality of Irish culture and the importance of its history.

This adds to the wonderful diversity of our state, so that all of us, whether Irish or not, can experience the unique congenial character of the Emerald Isle.

I therefore thank, with tremendous gratitude, the Board, Committees and volunteers of the QIA, for their dedication and service, and all members for supporting the many activities and events it holds. 

Tomorrow, Government House will be lit up green to honour Saint Patrick, and I am sure that this would make the four former Irish-born Queensland Governors who served this state, very proud indeed!

“May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks”—Enjoy this special evening.