Royal Life Saving Queensland Society's Honours Presentation

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland, Deputy President, Mr James McClelland BM OAM, and members of the Board, Mr Paul Barry and Mr Andrew Chan; National Medical Adviser, Professor John Pearn AO RFD; awardees, your family, friends and supporters; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here tonight.

As Governor of Queensland and proud Patron of Royal Life Saving Society Queensland, it is a great pleasure to welcome you all to Government House this evening for this very special honours presentation Reception.

This year marks 120 years since the establishment of Royal Life Saving Society Queensland—an extraordinary achievement that reflects not only the longevity of the organisation, but the enduring relevance of its mission: to prevent drowning and promote aquatic safety in our communities.

It is difficult to overstate the value of this work. We live in a state defined by its busy and beloved coastlines, rivers, lakes, and pools—where safe access to water is essential to our way of life.

But it is not just its wealth of expertise that defines the Society—it is the selfless service of its members and volunteers. The people we are honouring this evening have given so much of themselves, not for recognition, but because they understand what it means to serve their community with commitment, compassion and care.

Tonight’s recipients include those who have delivered years—even decades—of lifesaving training and education. Some are educators and mentors; others are trainers, board members and club leaders. All are champions for safety and inclusion.

We also recognise two extraordinary recipients of the Resuscitation Club Medal—Phillip Buddee and Kate Kroes—who, in a moment of great urgency, did not hesitate to act.

Their efforts helped save a life, and stand as a powerful reminder of why the work of the Society matters so deeply.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I offer my admiration and thanks to each of tonight’s awardees for their outstanding contributions—at a local, state, national and Commonwealth level.

I thank Royal Life Saving Society Queensland, and the many affiliated clubs and centres, for your continued dedication to keeping our communities safe in and around water.

It is an honour to share this evening with you and to celebrate the service, spirit and impact of this exceptional organisation.

I look forward to offering my congratulations to each of the award winners in turn shortly.

Thank you.