Reception in support of Queenslanders with Disability Network

Director-Generals and Deputy Director-Generals; Queenslanders with Disability Network Chairperson, Mr Des Ryan AO and the Board of Directors; CEO, Ms Paige Armstrong; QDN Life Members; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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

Graeme and I warmly welcome you to Government House this evening as we come together to celebrate the exceptional work of the Queenslanders with Disability Network.

For 20 years, this outstanding organisation has striven to ensure that those living with a disability are not simply heard and seen, but truly valued and able to contribute to the integrity, richness and diversity of our great State.

The support provided by the Network in relation to healthcare, housing, transport and employment hinges on the many activities carried out by their 32 Peer Support Groups that can be found across Queensland. 

The dedicated service delivered by these teams of devoted staff and volunteers has transformed the lives of some of Queensland’s most vulnerable citizens, affording them better access to assistance, and revealing a deeper understanding of their unique needs.

A great example of how QDN is building greater inclusiveness, is through its Emerging Leaders Program.

While some might assume ‘leadership’ is an innate attribute, let me assure you it is not! All of us have the capacity to become a leader in our own way and I commend the QDN for supporting people with disability to realise their leadership potential by developing their skills and arming them with the confidence to contribute to their community.

As Governor and Patron, I am incredibly proud of the Queenslanders with Disability Network.  You leave no stone unturned when it comes to advocacy around disability.

Forward-thinking projects, such as Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction and Targeted Outreach are driving change, and ensuring Queenslanders with disability are always included, respected and safe.

I thank your committed and hard-working Board of Directors, Executive and staff, as well as your compassionate and loyal team of volunteers.  Your humanity in supporting others sets an example to us all.

Before I finish, I would like to take this opportunity to present the Queenslanders with Disability Network with a Certificate of Patronage, and then Graeme and I invite you to enjoy our warm Government House hospitality.

Thank you.