Reception in Support of the World Down Syndrome Congress 2024

Down Syndrome International President Mrs Bridget Snedden ONZM and CEO, Mr Andrew Boys; Down Syndrome Australia Chair

Dr Rebecca Kelly, Members of the Board and CEO Mr Darryl Steff;

World Down Syndrome Congress Co-Chairs, Mr Angus Graham OAM and Professor Rhonda Faragher AO; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands on which we gather, and their connection to land and community. I pay my deepest respects to Elders past, present and emerging – especially during NAIDOC Week – a week that celebrates our rich Indigenous heritage and honours the resilience, pride, and vibrant culture of our First Nations communities.

It is an absolute delight to welcome you all to Government House this evening. I know many of you have travelled far to be in Brisbane for the 15th World Down Syndrome Congress, and I thank you for being part of this important, and very special event.

As Patron of Down Syndrome Queensland, and as Governor of this State, I am honoured that Queensland is hosting this triennial Congress, which is a valuable opportunity for people with Down syndrome, their families and supporters, and research and medical professionals, to share their experiences, insights and expertise with others from around the world.

Over three incredible days, you are being inspired, educated, and entertained by a jam-packed program of speakers, panel discussions and workshops—with something for everyone—and it is this wonderfully inclusive and welcoming approach that makes this Congress so beneficial.

This year’s theme—“Together We Can: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion”—highlights how collaboration, comradery, and compassion are all required to drive positive change, because these qualities encourage greater understanding, and promote the development of the life-enhancing initiatives that will make our world fairer and more accepting.

I therefore thank Down Syndrome International for the incredible work the organisation is doing every day to champion the human rights of people with Down syndrome—wherever they may live—and for building such a strong network of global support.

I also extend my gratitude to national host, Down Syndrome Australia, whose team have put in many hours to ensure the success of WDSC 2024. It is no small feat to organise a Congress of this size and scope, and on behalf of the state and territory organisations represented here, including Queensland’s, I thank you—and all those involved—for delivering such a significant event.

Of course, none of this would be possible, without the vital assistance of sponsors and supporters.

Striving towards equality requires effective advocacy, but it also relies on immense generosity to make worthy ideas become realities. So, on behalf of all here this evening, I pay tribute to the tremendous benevolence of those who have helped make this Congress happen.

While this year’s Congress wraps up tomorrow evening, its effects will last long after the final session is over. The value of the friendships and connections you have made, and the ideas and practical concepts you have gathered, will be deeply motivating into the future, generating ongoing encouragement and optimism.

I wish you all a very enjoyable final day of discussions, and hope that before you leave Brisbane and head home, you have the chance to see more of our beautiful city.