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27th Governor of Queensland Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM

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Reception in Support of the Brisbane Festival

The Honourable Justice Thomas Bradley; The Honourable Justice David Thomas; The Honourable Anthe Philippides; The Honourable Ian Callinan AC QC; Brisbane Festival Chair, Ms Alison Smith and the Honourable Paul Lucas; Artistic Director, Ms Louise Bezzina; Chief Executive Officer, Mr Charlie Cush; Interim Chair of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Mr Rod Pilbeam; Brisbane Festival staff and supporters; distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, welcome.

I begin by acknowledging the original owners of the lands around Brisbane, and their continuing connection to land, waters and communities. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to any First Nations people here with us today.

Graeme and I are thrilled to welcome you all to Government House. I know you are busily preparing for the festival next month, ahead of what will no doubt be another remarkable year of performances with over 1,000 artists set to be featured.

I have always admired your ability to push the boundaries – remaining at the forefront of new ideas and experiences to deliver a truly exceptional international arts festival that our City, and indeed all of Queensland, can be exceptionally proud of. While Brisbane is your stage, the world is your audience.

Founded as the Warana Festival 61 years ago before becoming Brisbane Festival in 1996, and merging with RiverFestival in 2009, you have successfully evolved into truly iconic cultural event to match our City’s bold ambition to be seen as a global Arts powerhouse. 

Offering “Entertainment for the people, by the people” you have played a valuable role in bringing together our community and bringing the next generation along for the ride.

I admire too, your dedication to highlighting First Nations and other local talent, focusing on community led artistry, complemented by both national and international artists. By being the epitome of community and culture, Brisbane Festival is truly a force to be reckoned with.

As Patron, an avid enthusiast of the Arts, and as the 27th Governor of Queensland, I thank you for leading the way so that others may follow.

Year after year you amaze us with bold and daring artists and each year seems to be bigger and better than the last.

It now gives me great pleasure to now present a Certificate of Patronage to Brisbane Festival Chairperson, Ms Alison Smith.