Michelle Landry
Capricornia · National Party · Australia
“Labor went to the Australian people before the election and promised one thing, and on budget night they did another. Now, in a dangerous and dishonest deal with the Greens, they have gone even further. Australians were told that there'd be no changes to negative gearing and no changes to capital gains tax.”
“It puts new pressure on housing, on savings, on investment, on small business and on younger Australians who are already struggling to get a foothold. This is not tax reform; this is a toxic tax agenda.”
“I recognise the specialist doctors who have helped make this level of care possible, including Dr Marie Burke, radiation oncologist and medical director for Queensland; Dr Tuan Ha, radiation oncologist for Queensland; and Rockhampton based radiation oncologists Dr Grant Buchanan and Dr Rodrigo Diaz.”
“For patients from Rockhampton, Gladstone, the Capricorn Coast, Emerald and all the communities in between, having radiation therapy available locally has meant less time on the road, less time away from work and family, and more time focused on getting well. GenesisCare Rockhampton has played a vital role in making that possible.”
“I rise today to congratulate GenesisCare Rockhampton on a very special milestone—10 years of caring for cancer patients in Central Queensland and more than 100,000 treatments delivered right here in our region.”
“A decade later it is wonderful to see how much that service has grown, how many local people have been helped and how dedicated the GenesisCare team remains to patients across our region. On a recent visit to the Rockhampton centre I was again struck by the professionalism and compassion of the staff.”
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“Instead of addressing the root cause of road trauma, which is unsafe, unfunded infrastructure, Labor are taking the easy way out. And let's not forget the human cost. Every minute added to a school bus run or medical appointment is time away from family, work and community. In the bush, distance already defines our lives. Labor's policy makes that distance even greater and our communities even smaller. And at the same time as they talk about road safety, they are cutting the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program—the very program councils rely on to maintain safe and efficient local roads. Councils like Isaac in Capricornia want to upgrade roads to a safe standard, delivering projects like the Phillips Creek Bridge Replacement Project that improves the safety and load capacity of the bridge and improves flood resilience.”
“For every extra 30 or 40 minutes added to a delivery, there are higher freight costs, longer work days and less productivity. That translates directly into high prices for consumers and smaller profits for local operators already battling cost-of-living pressures. Let's talk about the economic impacts. Poor road conditions already drive up fuel consumption and wear and tear on vehicles. Slowing traffic on top of that just compounds the problem. The result? Increased vehicle operating costs, higher transport times and reduce competitiveness for regional businesses. It also weakens our national supply chains. Fewer goods move at a slower pace for higher prices, and that flows from the farm gate to the supermarket shelf. You can't keep the nation's economy healthy when you're putting the brakes on its regions.”
“But rather than fund maintenance, fix the potholes, reseal the shoulders, repaint the lines and install proper safety features, Labor's answer is simply to tell Australians to drive slower. That is not leadership; that is laziness. It is the latest chapter in the pattern of lazy Labor, a party that wraps everything in red, green and black tape, that prefers slogans to substance. When the government first floated this plan, they gave Australians just 28 days to respond—a completely inadequate timeframe. Only after pressure from the coalition did they extend that consultation period. That's not transparency, that's panic. This policy will have real-world consequences. It will slow regional Australia to a crawl. For farmers, truckies, tradies and small business operators, time is money.”
“I rise today to speak on behalf of the people of Capricornia and regional Australians right across this nation. People are tired of being punished for living beyond the city limits. The Albanese Labor government's plan to slash default regional road speed limits to as low as 70 kilometres an hour is nothing short of lazy, short-sighted and damaging to regional Australia. Let's call this proposal what it really is: a Labor short cut dressed up as road safety. Instead of repairing our roads, they want to reduce our speed. Labor's own proposal would see speed limits reduced on dirt, gravel or sealed roads that are in poor condition, and that says it all. They are admitting that our roads are in disrepair. They are admitting that the system is failing.”
“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Rockhampton and Capricornia. This is about putting Rockhampton and regional Australia on the map for years to come.”
“Independent analyst KPMG projects that Brisbane 2032 will deliver over $8.1 billion in direct economic benefits to Queensland and create more than 91,000 jobs statewide. If Rockhampton were to capture even one to two per cent of that impact, it would mean an injection of $80 million to $160 million into our local economy and would support up to 1,800 jobs over the next two decades. Visitors will discover our beautiful coastal communities of Yeppoon and Emu Park, explore the breathtaking Capricorn Caves, enjoy Australia's finest beef and savour an array of boutique cafes, restaurants and distilleries, such as the Reef Distillers. Better still, our rowing and canoeing facilities will become a national and international trading hub for the next generation of champions.”
“The proposal includes a new athletes village within the railyards rejuvenation precinct, designed to be converted into permanent housing after the games; upgrades to the Fitzroy River and the Rockhampton Fitzroy Rowing Club, establishing our city as a premiere venue for elite level rowing and canoeing; improvements to the Rockhampton Ring Road as part of the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade between Brisbane and Cairns, a vital project enhancing transport, safety and economic activity across Queensland; and, access to the $250 million Games On! program, dedicated to upgrading grassroots sporting clubs, ensuring our local athletes, volunteers and communities benefit directly. The economic uplift from hosting the Olympic events will be enormous.”
“The 2032 Games are being designed with a strong focus on legacy and regional inclusion. The 2032 Olympics are about ensuring that communities like Rockhampton benefit for decades to come. Through upgraded infrastructure, improved connectivity, tourism development and support for grassroots support, the games will set up our region for lasting prosperity. For Rockhampton, this opportunity brings tangible long-term benefits.”
“I rise to speak about an extraordinary opportunity for our region: the proposal for Rockhampton to host the rowing and canoe sprint events for Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is far more than just a sporting event; it's a generation investment in the Rockhampton region's future—one has potential to transform our city, strengthen our economy and showcase the incredible beauty and spirit of Central Queensland to the world. Hosting Olympic events on the Fitzroy River will place not only Brisbane, Rockhampton and the wider Capricornia region firmly on the global stage; it will allow the world to see our stunning landscapes, from our pristine beaches and tropical islands to our rugged hinterland, and to experience the warmth, pride and resilience of our people.”
“But it was his community spirit and generosity that truly defined him. Len served in many community roles over the years. He was the first president of the Sarina Ski Club, served as treasurer of the Sarina rifle club and devoted 25 years to air and sea rescue. He chalked up nearly 50 years of service to the Sarina Rotary Club, where he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow for his tireless dedication to the community. He was a proud and active member of the RSL for over 60 years, always turning up to support his mates and younger veterans alike. Len recently stated, 'It's a bugger being one of the last men standing.' As long as we remember stories like his, their spirit endures—the spirit of courage, service and selflessness that built this nation and continues to guide it.”
“Len recalled how the villagers, the 'fuzzy wuzzies', splinted his leg with jungle sticks and stitched a blanket from hibiscus bark to carry him to safety—an incredible act of compassion and courage that he never forgot and spoke of often, with deep gratitude. After a long recovery, Len was discharged in October 1946, as a corporal. For his service, Len received the 1939-45 Star, Pacific Star, War Medal and Australian Service Medal. After the war, Len settled in Mackay and later in Sarina, where he met and married a nurse named Ada. Together they raised four children and shared a lifetime of love, laughter and hard work. Len worked in the sugar industry for many years in the local sugar mill, cutting cane by hand, and later managing a cane farm with great pride and skill.”
“After several determined attempts to join the Australian Military Forces, Len finally succeeded in October 1942, training as an instrument mechanic before transferring to the Australian Imperial Force. At just 19, Len was drafted to Milne Bay in New Guinea, serving first with the Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and later transferring to the 2nd/12th Australian Infantry Battalion. He completed rigorous jungle warfare training at Canungra before deployment to New Guinea. His war service ended suddenly during a patrol in New Guinea's mountains when a fall shattered his leg.”
“I rise today to honour the life and service of Leonard Frank Lister, a proud Australian, a devoted husband and father and one of the last of a remarkable generation who gave everything for their country and community. Born on 14 February 1924 in Burwood, New South Wales, Len grew up during the Great Depression, one of many young Australians who grew up tough, resilient and ready to serve when their nation called on them in its hour of need. He passed away a couple of weeks ago at the extraordinary age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of courage, humility, kindness and lifelong dedication to others that continues to inspire all who knew him. Len's journey to serve his country was not easy. At age 18, Len joined the RAAF and was later discharged due to asthma.”
“It was not a new project and not a handout, just the green light needed to get on with the job. The decision to cut this funding shows utter contempt for Rockhampton and the wider Capricornia region. It's a betrayal of local athletes, volunteers and families, who have poured their hearts into this vision. I call on Minister King and the Albanese government to reverse this decision and show some respect for the people of Rockhampton. Our community deserves better.”
“Today I rise to express my deep disappointment and, frankly, outrage at the Albanese Labor government's decision to rip $23 million in funding from the Rocky Sports Club project. This funding was secured and approved in 2010 by the former coalition government to support the expansion of a club that services 129 local sporting and community groups. It was shovel ready and community backed, and it would have delivered local jobs and world-class sporting facilities in Rockhampton. Instead of backing regional Queensland, Labor's infrastructure minister, Catherine King, has strung along this community for years, only to pull the plug entirely, late on Friday afternoon, thinking no-one would notice. Let's be clear: this was a simple variation request for an extension of time.”
“It is uncosted, unrealistic and unfair. The government refuses to reveal what it will cost households, businesses or shops, and Australians are already paying the price. Their race to 82 per cent renewables by 2030 is tearing up farmland and bushland with transmission lines, solar panels and wind turbines. This isn't green; it's destroying the environment in the name renewable energy. The Nationals believe in balance and affordable and sustainable energy solutions. We believe in regional industry. We believe in sovereignty. While Labor governs for the inner-city elite, the Nationals stand with the worker on the factory floor, the farmer in the paddock and the miner who keeps the lights on. Regional Australia deserves more than bureaucracy and broken promises. It deserves a government that has its back, not one that's tearing it down.”
“I wrote to the minister in February urging action, but, true to form, Labor has done nothing—no communication, no progress, no respect for the people of Rockhampton. Rocky sports club's Gavin Shuker says the club is ready to go, but the minister's office has left them in limbo. They've jumped through every hoop, and all that's needed is a signature so locals can get to work. Labor's red tape and arrogance are hurting regional Australia. This project should already be supporting jobs and delivering benefits for the community. The minister needs to get moving, sign the variation and let Rockhampton move forward. While regional projects are held hostage, regional communities are being hit with the full force of Labor's all-renewables ideology. Their reckless 2035 emissions target is based on flawed assumptions.”
“Labor's first budget slashed over $10 billion in regional programs and $30 billion in projects across the country. They axed or gutted the Building Better Regions Fund, the Stronger Communities Program, the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the regional accelerator fund. I've had to fight tooth and nail to keep vital economy-boosting projects alive—like the Rockhampton ring road, which faced Labor's chopping block, and safety upgrades for the Phillips Creek Bridge in the Bowen Basin. Even now, Labor is wilfully delaying the $23 million Rocky sports stadium, a project that's fully funded and construction ready. This project has sat on the minister's desk for a year waiting for approval.”
“Labor went to the 2022 election promising to cut power bills by $275 by 2025. Instead bills are up 39 per cent. That's $1,300 more than promised. While the minister tells the media how important gas is for manufacturing, he fails to mention that Australian industry is paying $10.30 a gigajoule for gas compared to $3 in the United States. Labor's treatment of regional Australia is nothing short of disgraceful. For the one in three Australians who live outside our capital cities, Labor's record is defined by neglect, incompetence and betrayal. Families across the regions are doing it tough. They're facing soaring costs, housing shortages and dwindling access to health care and child care. What has Labor done? Cut and delayed billions in regional funding.”
“Labor's agenda is eroding that foundation—from their reckless all-renewables policy and fantasy 2035 emissions target to their cuts to regional infrastructure and skyrocketing energy costs. Labor has become the single biggest risk to Australia's economy. In the June quarter of 2025, manufacturing contributed just 5.1 per cent of GDP, the lowest level on record. Australia now ranks amongst the lowest in the OECD for manufacturing share. Yet more than 900,000 Australians still work in manufacturing. These businesses have endured COVID, supply chain shocks and soaring costs. They're not asking for hand-outs; they're asking for a fair go. They want affordable, reliable energy, a competitive tax system and a government that rewards effort not bureaucracy. Instead they've got the opposite.”
“Regional Australia is the beating heart of our nation, the home of the industries that keep this country not just running but thriving. It's the miners, manufacturers and farmers who power our economy, feed our people and build our future. When regional Australia is strong, our whole nation is strong, but, under the Albanese Labor government, these industries and the communities that depend on them are under siege. This is a government that governs for the cities not the regions, a government driven by ideology not common sense and a government whose policies are devastating productivity, driving businesses to the wall and threatening the livelihoods of hardworking Australians.”
“Above all of his incredible community work, Ray was a devoted family man. He was a dearly loved husband to Laures, father to Diane, Julie, Trudy and David, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. Central Queensland has lost a giant of community spirit. His legacy will endure not only in the clubs he founded, the organisations he strengthened and the awards he received but also in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, encouragement and unwavering commitment to service. Ray Young's life reminds us that true greatness is measured not by what we achieve for ourselves but what we give to others.”
“For almost 40 years he was a proud Rotarian, twice serving as club president and mentoring countless young people through the Rotary exchange program. He received Rotary's highest accolades, including the Paul Harris Fellowship and the Four Avenue of Service Award. He gave generously of his time to the Glenmore State High School Parents and Friends Association, and the Rockhampton Chinese Citizens Association, and in 1982 proudly welcomed the Singapore Army to Rockhampton, receiving the 'golden lion' award in recognition of his efforts. Ray's extraordinary service was recognised with numerous honours, including a Gymnastics Queensland life membership in 1996, the Rockhampton Citizen of the Year in 1999, the Australian Sports Medal in 2000, and the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2001.”
“Over his lifetime more than 65,000 gymnasts across the state passed through his coaching, with thousands going on to become leaders, coaches and judges themselves. Beyond sport, his dedication to the community was boundless. After becoming a justice of the peace in 1984, he dedicated more than four decades to serving his community and strengthening the JP network across Queensland. His tireless commitment earned him life membership—a reflection of his integrity, leadership and passion for public service. Through his efforts to expand JP education and support services, countless volunteers across the region have been empowered to better serve their communities. His work has ensured that vital JP services remain accessible, trusted and reliable for people right across Central Queensland and beyond.”
“I rise today to honour the life of an extraordinary Central Queenslander, Raymond Young OAM, who passed away on 22 August this year. Born on 18 September 1932, Ray's life was marked from an early age by passion, generosity and a deep commitment to serving others. His love for sport, and for gymnastics in particular, began when he was only five, watching travelling Chinese acrobats rehearse in Rockhampton. Encouraged by teachers and mentors, that early spark grew into a lifelong mission not simply to excel in the sport himself but to share its joy and discipline with generations of young people across Central Queensland. Through these efforts he offered thousands of children a positive alternative to the streets, a challenge to strive towards and a welcoming place to belong.”
“Together, they inject up to $2 billion into our economy every year. This is proof that, from regional communities to the family table, egg farming is powering both our plates and our prosperity. So, today I say thank you. Thank you to every hardworking egg farmer across Australia. Your dedication ensures that families right across the country continue to enjoy this versatile, protein-rich food every single day. As we celebrate World Egg Day, I encourage all Australians to keep supporting our local farmers by putting eggs on their plate and backing an industry that supports thousands of jobs and communities across the country.”
“Eggs may be humble, but this week they take centre stage in parliament as we celebrate World Egg Day. While the official date isn't until 10 October, we're taking a moment this week to recognise the incredible work of Australia's egg farmers. Eggs are one of the most trusted staples in our kitchen. They're healthy, affordable and found in almost every fridge across the nation. With families looking for nutritious, quick and cost-effective meals, the humble egg continues to deliver. Each year, Australians consume 6.3 billion eggs. That's 266 eggs per person. Behind this impressive figure are around 528 farms across the country producing the fresh, high-quality eggs we all enjoy. The egg industry isn't just about what's on our plates; it's about people. More than 4,000 Australians are employed on egg farms and in associated industries.”
“Your passion for civics education and hands-on engagement with students was truly inspiring, and it shows what we can achieve when we work together to equip the next generation with an understanding of our democracy. Our democracy is strongest when young people understand it and feel part of it. Civics education is not just about facts and dates; it's about nurturing active citizens who are ready to shape Australia's future.”
“It belongs to every Australian, no matter whether they live in Canberra, Sydney or a small regional town like Sarina. It's no secret that, when young people understand how our system works, they are far more likely to engage in it, question it and participate in it. A strong democracy requires informed citizens, and that learning begins in our classrooms. I want to take a moment to pay particular tribute to the principal of Sarina State School, Emelie Adams. Her leadership and dedication to her students are extraordinary. She has created an environment where curiosity is encouraged and respect is expected and every student is given the opportunity to thrive. Lastly, I thank the Speaker of the House for creating this invaluable opportunity.”
“They didn't just hear about the Australian flag that flies proudly above Parliament House; they saw it, touched it and stood in awe of its scale. The experience was enriched further by the Parliament in Schools program. The year 5 and 6 students stepped into the shoes of parliamentarians—debating legislation, learning about the responsibilities of government and practising how decisions are made in our democracy. They even tackled one of the great issues of modern life: whether pineapple belongs on pizza. I can report to the House that the result was decisive—pineapple was overwhelmingly voted out. But, behind the laughter and fun lies something profoundly important, experiences like these bring civics to life. They show students that our democracy is not distant or abstract; it is theirs.”
“Earlier this month, the students of Sarina State School had an experience that they'll never forget—an opportunity to connect with our democracy in a way that was both tangible and inspiring, without ever leaving their home town. The APH Flag Roadshow, together with the Parliament in Schools program, travelled to Sarina, a small but proud community just 30 minutes south of Mackay. Sarina is well known for its industries, including sugar milling and cattle, and the coal port that helps export Queensland's high-value resources to the world. But, on this day, the focus was not on industry but on education. On a picture-perfect winter morning, around 50 students gathered on the school oval to take part in something truly remarkable.”
“My question is to the Assistant Treasurer. During Labor's first term, we saw the debacle of the government's attempts to impose a biosecurity protection levy which would have forced Australian farmers to pay for the biosecurity risks of their foreign competitors. Will the minister rule out taxing farmers more in order to fund our nation's biosecurity system?”
“It was a reminder that the strength of our veterans is found not only in their service but also in the way they continue to look after one another. Since 1997, the Cockscomb Veterans Bush Retreat has been a place of solace and healing for Vietnam veterans. Today, it continues to serve as a place of reflection and peace for veterans of more recent conflicts as well. It's a sanctuary where the silent battles faced by many are, if only for a while, quietened. To the veterans of Vietnam and all who have served since: your courage shaped our history, your sacrifice safeguards our freedom and your legacy will live on through every generation of Australians. We honour you not only in ceremony but in our actions, and we pledge never to forget the price you paid for this nation. Lest we forget.”
“Last week, on Vietnam Veterans' Day, we paused to reflect on a conflict that shaped a generation and to honour the courage, sacrifice and enduring spirit of all who served. I was privileged to join many Vietnam veterans and their families at Cockscomb Veterans Bush Retreat for a moving service. Together, we remembered not only those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam but also those who, in the years since, have lost their own battles in different ways. The bonds of mateship remain strong more than 50 years on, and it was deeply humbling to witness. Following the service, I spent time with many of the veterans, sharing in the solidarity that is so unique to the veterans community and reflecting on the incredible work Cockscomb Veterans Bush Retreat does to support those who have served.”
“It's not too late for the Australian government to put people first. It's not too late to listen to Susan; her physio, Greg; and every regional Australian who depends on the NDIS for dignity, independence and hope.”
“Children miss out on therapy that could be life changing. Adults lose independence they have fought so hard to gain. This is not just policy; it is real life, and it is being put at risk by decisions made in offices far from the regions they affect. These changes send a chilling message to all Australians living outside major cities that your postcode determines the quality of care you receive and that your progress, your independence and your dignity are negotiable. I am calling on the government to defer these changes for at least three months. This time must be used to consult properly with providers, participants and communities. The government must plan how service delivery will be maintained and explain how community based providers are expected to adapt without leaving vulnerable Australians high and dry.”
“Greg told me that there are people like Susan who simply can't leave their homes. These people deserve the same access to quality care as everyone else. But what the government is saying is 'you just have to take what you can get'. Providers in regional and remote areas already face significant challenges. They drive hundreds of kilometres, often in difficult conditions, paying higher costs for fuel and vehicle maintenance. These policy changes make it financially unsustainable for them to continue serving the people who rely on them. The government's assumption that providers can simply adapt ignores the realities of delivering care in the bush. And let us not forget the personal toll. Families are left carrying more responsibility when support services are cut. Carers must fill the gaps, sacrificing their own health and wellbeing.”
“With Greg's support, she has gone from dangerous falls and being bedbound to being able to do weight-bearing exercises safely. She said, if she doesn't have access to physio, her progress stops. Susan has a message for this government: 'Rural Australians are just as important as people in the cities. Disabled people already have enough on their plates. If they live rural and can't access these supports, sometimes life just isn't worth living.' Susan's words should haunt every member of this House. Her physiotherapist, Greg Muller, also spoke to me about the impact of these cuts. His mobile practice was built to reach the people who often get left behind. They deliberately run lean, check every code and do everything possible to keep services viable, but there's only so much they can do.”
“But, instead of targeting the culprits, Labor has swung the axe at the providers who are doing the right thing, the ones who drive thousands of kilometres and invest time and money to reach those left behind and ensure families and participants aren't forgotten—but that is already happening. My constituent Susan Blackborough was diagnosed with MS at just 12 years old. Susan did not let her disease define her. She was active and independent and once ran a successful business. But, as her disease progressed, she lost her independence and now lives with profound disability. Susan told me that some days she's unable to get out of bed without assistance and that she has lost her ability to walk. But with the help of her physiotherapist, Greg, Susan has slowly regained some strength and independence. Susan's goal is to walk again.”
“Participants are frightened, wondering if the care they have depended on for years will suddenly disappear. These changes are not a simple policy tweak; they are the difference between a child receiving life-changing therapy or going without. They are the difference between a provider staying in the region and a provider walking away. For many residents in rural communities, the nearest physiotherapist is hours away, making regular therapy all but impossible without providers travelling long distances to deliver care. The NDIA might call the changes 'efficiency', but let's call them what they are: a direct hit on regional Australians living with disability. Yes, there are rorts in the system, and they must be addressed. No-one disputes that.”
“Behind every policy decision, there are real people. When the NDIS was created, it carried a promise that every Australian with disability, no matter their postcode, would be supported with dignity, fairness and opportunity. For those in regional, rural and remote communities, that promise was meant to close the gap, ensuring access to quality care, even hundreds of kilometres from the nearest major city. But that promise has now been broken. Without consultation, the NDIA pushed through changes in its annual pricing review. Hidden deep within recommendation 12 was a devastating cut that unduly punishes regional Australians. Providers have been left scrambling, unsure if they can continue travelling to the communities that rely on them.”
“When we speak of service, sacrifice, bravery and legacy, let us remember Private Richard Norden VC, a soldier of unmatched courage, a young man who gave everything for his mates and his country. Lest we forget.”
“The former coalition government recognised the strategic importance of Shoalwater Bay and, in partnership with the Singapore government through the Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative, delivered a $1 billion investment for the Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area. This funding enabled the construction of a new field kitchen, dining facility, admin building, medical centre, exercise control centre, landing zone, logistics infrastructure and other vital support systems. Such a significant investment ensures our troops have the world-class training environment they need to remain prepared and capable, particularly in a time of increasing global uncertainty. These brave men and women make immense sacrifices to protect our nation, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they have the tools and facilities to do so.”
“Right now, as we honour the bravery of the past, our region continues to serve the nation through Exercise Talisman Sabre, the largest military training exercise since its inception. Shoalwater Bay is once again the stage for a global defence operation, with over 35,000 troops and 19 allied nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, the Netherlands and Fiji, training together on our soil. What began as a bilateral Australia-US exercise has grown into a world-class demonstration of unity, readiness and strategic cooperation. From precision missile drills to amphibious landings, Shoalwater Bay has proven time and time again that it is one of the finest military training environments anywhere in the world.”
“This wasn't just a medal presentation; this was a nation finally standing tall and saying, 'We see you; we honour you; we are grateful.' For far too long, Vietnam veterans like Richard were not treated with the respect they deserved. They came home to silence, misunderstanding and rejection, but, with this award, that wrong was in part made right. It took years of tireless advocacy, especially from retired Lieutenant Colonel George Hulse, who formally submitted the application in 2020. Though the Department of Defence initially rejected the request, the veteran community did not give up. The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal eventually agreed that Richard Norden's actions fully met the criteria for a Victoria Cross. On Remembrance Day last year, Richard Norden was formally awarded the VC. It's the highest honour we can bestow.”
“His selflessness, unshakeable bravery and refusal to back down saved lives and turned the tide of battle. His actions went far beyond the call of duty. Tragically, just a few years later, Richard's life was cut short in a motorcycle accident while serving with the Australian Capital Territory Police. He was only 24 years old. He left behind a young wife, Robynn, and two small sons, Scott and Shane. A number of years later, after Private Norden's passing, Robynn met her now husband, Lance Freeman, who along with Robynn's young boys moved to Rockhampton. So earlier this month, it was at Rockhampton, in the city that welcomed this incredible family, where Robynn accepted the Victoria Cross on Richard's behalf. It's hard to describe the emotion that was in the room—the pride, the reverence, the grief, the love.”
“Veterans, children, civic leaders, defence personnel and local residents all gathered to bear witness to something deeply significant—the rightful recognition of a young soldier who gave everything for his country. Private Richard Norden enlisted in the Australian Army at just 18 years of age. In December 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam with the 1st Australian Reinforcement Unit. His actions on 14 May 1968 in the battle of Coral-Balmoral are now etched in the history books. When his platoon was ambushed, he didn't hesitate. Under relentless and withering enemy fire, Richard advanced again and again. He risked his life to carry wounded comrades to safety. He recovered the body of a fallen mate. Despite being seriously wounded himself, he continued to engage the enemy and protect his platoon.”
“Earlier this month in Rockhampton, something truly profound happened that will be remembered not just by our region but by our nation. In a deeply moving and historic ceremony, Private Richard Norden was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, Australia's highest military honour, for his extraordinary bravery during the Vietnam War, and it was not in Canberra nor in Sydney or Melbourne but in the regional city of Rockhampton, where Private Norden's family call home. The Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, personally travelled to our region to present the medal to Richard's family. What an honour; what a moment. It was a moment that brought our entire community together.”
“That's where people like Roylene step in. When the systems fail and people are at their lowest, Roylene and her volunteers are there offering food, offering comfort, offering hope. Roylene's heart beats for her community, and her work reminds us of the power of kindness. She isn't motivated by headlines or awards; she's driven by compassion. In a world where people often feel forgotten, Roylene makes them feel seen. Today I want to say thank you on behalf of our community, on behalf of every person you've helped, on behalf of every child whose life is better because of you. You are the very definition of a local hero, and Capricornia is stronger because of you.”
“The cost-of-living crisis is biting hard. Families are being pushed to their limits by soaring rent, petrol prices and grocery bills. A recent Salvation Army social justice stocktake report confirms what many of us in Capricornia already know: our region is in the grip of a housing crisis. Eighty-two per cent of people surveyed identified housing affordability or homelessness as a major issue. Nearly half of them said it was impacting them personally. It's estimated that there are 574 people currently homeless in Capricornia, and we're short over 3,500 dwellings. Add to that that 58 per cent of people in our community are experiencing financial hardship. These numbers are shocking, and behind each one is a real person; a real story; a story of struggle, resilience and, too often, falling through the cracks.”