Winton Community Morning Tea

Mayor, Councillor Gavin Baskett and Winton Shire Councillors, business and community leaders, ladies and gentlemen, welcome.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we gather, the Koa people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

I am so pleased to be in Winton on my first official Vice-Regal visit here. I deeply appreciate your warm welcome, and thank Mayor Baskett and the Winton Shire Council for hosting this lovely morning tea.

The Winton region really is a remarkable part of Queensland, with its unique attractions, breathtaking natural beauty, rich heritage, and of course, its charming and friendly people.

No wonder many thousands of visitors love coming here—and experiencing incredible places like The Waltzing Matilda Centre, and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, or iconic events like The Outback Festival, the Way Out West Fest and the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival. 

Last night, I was thrilled to attend a performance of Lady Sings the Maroons as part of the Festival of Outback Opera, under the stars at the Eric Lenton Memorial Recreation Grounds. What a memorable evening!

…But of course, for the people who call the Winton Shire home, it is so much more than a fabulous festival host! The vitality of a region relies on the happiness and wellbeing of residents, and the way the community comes together when times are favourable or challenging. 

As Governor of this State, one of my key roles is to learn more about communities such as yours, by talking to teachers and students in your local schools, and the health staff at the Winton Multipurpose Health Service, meeting with Mayor Baskett and Councillors, and touring the special places that are important to you.

This visit also gives me the opportunity to chat with all of you—people contributing to Winton’s success through your business activities, tourism ventures, and through work with the charitable and community organisations that encourage greater involvement and inclusion.

It is your efforts that build a strong and dynamic community—it is your dedication, passion and enthusiasm that make Winton the endearing, legendary place it is.

I know that your Mayor and Councillors are committed to developing initiatives that will continue to improve your local lifestyle, while also continuing to support the famous tourism experience Winton offers.

Your community may be small in number, but I know you are mighty when it comes to determination and pride!

I thank you all for contributing to this vibrancy, and the positive impact it is having on our entire state and look forward to chatting with you all over morning tea.