Scott Buchholz (Wright, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Skills and Training) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Australia Day is a day that reflects who we are as a nation: resilient, generous, hardworking and community minded. Like many Australians, I spent the day with local families, volunteers and community leaders, all celebrating what makes our part of Queensland very special. I began Australia Day at the Kalbar community breakfast awards, a wonderful local tradition that brings people together—local families, farmers, business owners, young people and volunteers. I acknowledge Wilson Neuendorf for his leadership in those awards.

It was an honour to recognise some of our outstanding locals. The Young Achiever went to Gabriella Stokes, a wonderful example of leadership and service. The Young Farmer went to Ben Neuendorf, representing the future of Australian agriculture. Farm Innovation went to Rieck Farming, showing how tradition and innovation now walk hand in hand. The Best Business went to Emporium, supporting local jobs in our main street. The Community Leader award went to Phil Ortlipp, a dedicated police officer and a community champion. And a very special award went to Ray Parker from Aratula, recognised for a lifetime of service and community spirit. These are the people who quietly keep our region strong.

Later in the day I attended a citizenship ceremony and Scenic Rim Australia Day Awards in Beaudesert. We welcomed 71 new citizens. It's always a powerful reminder how fortunate we are to live in this country. I congratulate this year's Scenic Rim awards recipients. Citizen of the Year 16-30 went to Izzabella Lower. Citizen of the Year 31-65 went to Jenny Jenner and Kane Lutter. Citizen of the Year 65+ went to Phil Rankin. The Community Event of the Year went to Boonah State High School's paddock-to-plate function. And the Community Spirit award went to Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary. The Mayor's Award went to Kay Tommerup. Each of these awardees represent service, generosity and commitment to others.

I also wish to acknowledge members of our electorate recognised on the Australia Day 2026 Honours List: Mr Wen Yao Ko OAM, Ms Susan Neale ASM, Mrs Dannielle Bull ESM and Flight Sergeant Anthony Ahchow CSM. These honours reflect extraordinary service to our nation and community. Australia Day in my region is not about speeches and ceremonies alone; it's about acknowledging the amazing people, whether they're volunteers, emergency workers, teachers, farmers, business owners or community leaders, who make our region such a great place for us to call home.