Emma Comer (Petrie, Australian Labor Party) | Hansard source

Today I want to celebrate three examples of what makes Petrie such a special place: creativity, community and confidence in the future. First, Redcliffe is fast making its case as the art capital of the world. Across the Peninsula, creativity is everywhere. We see it in our galleries, our community groups, schools and in the people who give their time and talent to make our community brighter.

The Redcliffe Floral and Art Show is a beautiful example of that spirit. It brings together colour, care, creativity and community pride. It reminds us that art is not distant or exclusive. It belongs in our neighbourhoods, community halls and in the hands of people who love creating something beautiful. This event has been organised by the fantastic Liz Peters, and it has gone from strength to strength. I also want to acknowledge the Redcliffe Art Society and its Exhibition of Excellence. For decades, the society has supported local artists, encouraged new talent and helped make Redcliffe a genuine cultural hub. To every artist, organiser, volunteer and supporter involved: thank you for adding so much life and colour to our community.

The second thing I want to celebrate is bringing parliament to Petrie. Recently at Bracken Ridge State School, I hosted Parliament in Schools program with the Speaker of the House. It was an opportunity for students to learn about democracy, representation and how decisions are made here in this building. Not every young person gets a chance to travel to Canberra, so programs like this matter. They show students that parliament belongs to them too. They help young people understand that their voices and ideas count and that democracy is strongest when people are informed and engaged. I thank the staff and students and the school community at Bracken Ridge State School, including the principal, Robyne Harris, deputy principal, Ben Laws, and the head of curriculum, Jess Edwards, for their warm welcome and embracing this opportunity.

Finally, I recognise a historic moment in our region—the ground breaking of PsiQuantum world-first utility-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer. This is not just a major scientific milestone; it is a statement about Australia's future. It says world-leading technology, advanced manufacturing and the jobs of tomorrow can be built right here in our region. Quantum computing has the potential to transform industries like medicine, energy, agriculture, logistics, materials, science and more that we can't even fathom today. For our community, it means new opportunities, new skills and a place at the centre of this exciting technology.

From local artists in Redcliffe to students learning about democracy in Bracken Ridge to world-leading quantum technology being built right in our region, Petrie is a place of talent, ambition and possibility. I am incredibly, incredibly proud to represent this community.

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