Visit to Indooroopilly State School

Good morning, Indooroopilly State School Principal Ms Debbie Spanner, staff, students and parents.

Thank you, William and Yuna for your acknowledgement of country. I would also like to acknowledge the Original Custodians of the lands upon which we are gathered, the Turrbal and Jagera people and pay my respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here this morning.

What an absolute pleasure it is to be here today in such esteemed company — among the talented winners of the 2024 School Scarecrow Competition at the Ekka!

Congratulations to each one of you who had a part in that. What an achievement!

Your scarecrow, inspired by Banjo Paterson’s "Jolly Swagman" from Waltzing Matilda, not only showed off your talent and artistic flair but also your knowledge of Australian history, and of course, one of our country’s most influential and amazing poets.

And in creating your scarecrow, you did something truly magical — you made our history, and Banjo Patterson’s wonderful poetry, come to life, and you shared it with thousands upon thousands of people from all over Queensland, who came to the Ekka and admired your winning entry.

I can’t help but think that’s exactly what Banjo would have wanted!

You might be excited to hear that while we were looking after your scarecrow up at Government House, it was seen by even more people, and some very special ones, too!

We positioned him right outside our Investiture Room, which is where people come when they have won awards or been honoured for doing something really special and important for their community, and for Queensland — and as Governor, I get the honour of presenting them with what we call Australian Honours and Awards.

They can be teachers, scientists, sporting stars, businesspeople, charity workers, community volunteers, military or police officers, and they’ve usually made a big difference in the lives of others.

It’s interesting that your school’s motto is Honour Above All, which suggests to me that you know a lot about this sort of thing already.

And just like the Jolly Swagman, who is resilient and courageous, your work shows that you’re willing to take on challenges and put in your best effort.

Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved win in the School Scarecrow Competition, and I can’t wait to see the great things you’ll continue to achieve. Keep up the fantastic work, Indooroopilly!

Thank you.