John McVeigh (Groom, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The first consignment of international air freight from the nation's largest privately-owned airport touched down in Hong Kong this morning. This is a remarkable case of endeavour and initiative from the Darling Downs. Many said it was a pipe dream. But those naysayers have learnt that Toowoomba's Wagner family should never be underestimated. Due to their foresight and the commitment of local families and businesses, the potential for our electorate of Groom is only limited by the constraints we place on ourselves.

Not so long ago, people would have thought that air-freighting fresh produce to Asian markets from the Downs was a good idea but one fraught with challenges. Well, last night, a Cathay Pacific Airways 747 cargo flight did just that. It was loaded with chilled beef and other produce to be taken to market. This regular service will see Australian clean, green and safe produce from the Darling Downs flown directly into Asia—including, for example, premium beef loin cuts from Oakey Beef Exports destined for high-end restaurants in Hong Kong.

Groom is truly a world-class example of industry leading business and job creation and growth, and of all levels of government supporting and facilitating where appropriate. I am proud to say: that is exactly what the Turnbull government has been doing in securing approvals for this airport, investing heavily in our roads, and getting on with the job of inland rail.