Reception and Queen’s Award presentations for The Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades Queensland

This event is also special because, in becoming the Queensland representative of Her Majesty The Queen, I am pleased to confirm I am delighted to accept the invitation to become Patron of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades in our State – the latest in a long line of Governors to accept this title.

By tradition, Governors have accepted these invitations to recognise the important contribution the Brigades have made – and continue to make – to the young people of our State.

That contribution first began in 1913, when the very first Queensland Boys’ Brigade Company was established.

I feel a direct connection to that time – not because I was alive back then! – but because the Governor of Queensland in 1913 was Sir William Macgregor.

Like me, he served as both a medical practitioner and a Chief Health Officer during his career, before becoming Governor.

I am pleased to be able to carry out my very first official duty as your Patron so soon after my swearing-in.

The Queen’s Awards I present are public recognition of the hard work and determination of tonight’s awardees to reach the goals and standards required for the highest Brigade award.

I congratulate you all on this marvellous achievement. Your families and friends can be justifiably proud.

For close to a hundred and forty years, the Brigades have been helping young people to grow into disciplined adults who are dedicated to serving their communities and who are “sure and steadfast” in their faith.

On an occasion such as this, it is fitting to reflect on the vision of the founder of the first Brigade, back in 1883.

Sir William Alexander Smith was not only far-sighted, but had high ideals and the courage and determination to carry them through. You can all be very proud to walk in the footsteps of such a visionary.

Congratulations once again to you all. I now have the great honour of presenting Patronage certificates to representatives of both Brigades, to recognise tonight’s historic occasion. Thank you.