Reception for Emergency Services, SES and Flood Recovery Volunteers

Deputy Commissioner, Readiness and Response Services, Mr Michael Wassing AFSM; Acting Deputy Commissioner, Capability and State Services, Mr Stephen Smith AFSM; Acting Executive Director, Assurance Directorate and Information Technology Directorate, Mr Brian Cox CSC ESM; members of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, the State Emergency Service and other flood response units; family; supporters; ladies and gentlemen.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to be here with you, this afternoon.

I begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and extend respectful greetings to Elders, past, present, and emerging.

 I have said before, that one of the great privileges of being Governor is visiting the regions to support and acknowledge people who exemplify the qualities that define the Queensland way – those of selflessness, resilience and courage through adversity.

In this capacity, I have been able to visit areas in Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Logan, the Lockyer Valley, Gympie and Maryborough, following the impact of the recent floods in 2022.

Next week, I will visit Goondiwindi and Texas, areas that were also affected by floods late last year.

One of the other privileges of being Governor, is having the opportunity to offer thanks, on behalf of all Queenslanders.

Today, I offer those thanks to you, and to all your colleagues, who have provided such brave and generous service to your community during these devastating floods, and who continue to support the ongoing recovery efforts.

I would like to particularly acknowledge the Dray family who are here with us today. Merryl’s service and sacrifice will always be remembered with solemnity and gratitude by all Queenslanders.

This afternoon we have representatives from our Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and State Emergency Service.  

We have attendees from local council areas across Queensland, along with volunteers from community groups including State Emergency Service, and the Rural Fire Service.

It is incredible to look around the room and see the range of diverse people and to recognise the different roles you each played – and continue to play – to be there for Queensland in our time of need.

One thing you all share, is an unwavering commitment to putting the needs of others before yourselves.

The efforts you made in your initial response to the devastating weather events across the State have helped lay the foundations for a resilient recovery. While the waters may have receded, the road to recovery is long, and we thank you for your continued efforts to stand by our impacted communities now, and into the future. 

You have made Queensland proud. 

Thank you.