Andrew Willcox (Dawson, Liberal National Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It was Walt Disney himself who said:

It's kind of fun to do the impossible.

For the people in my electorate of Dawson, the impossible has become a reality. While the big cities might think that they have a monopoly on magic, I'm here to tell the House that the red carpet is being rolled out so much further north—not Melbourne, not Sydney, not even Brisbane. The spotlight has shifted because a world-class global showcase is making its Australian premiere in Central Queensland. Mackay has been hand-picked to host the legendary collection and bring Disney:The Exhibition - ACentury of Magic straight to the regions. This exhibition has enchanted audiences in London, Munich and Paris, yet, it chose the heart of Central Queensland to be its Australian home.

This is a 'whole new world' for regional tourism, with rare artefacts, costumes and props from the Disney archives, including the legends of Star Wars and Marvel. This is a magical opportunity for our families. For all our local cafes, hotels and small businesses, this is a 'zip-a-dee-doo-dah' day for our economy. To the rest of the nation, I say, 'Be our guest.' Come to Mackay and see the magic for yourself, because in Dawson the dreams you dare to dream really do come true.

While we look forward to the magic storytelling that Disney will bring to Dawson, we are currently approaching a season that tells the greatest story of all. For my family, and for so many families across Dawson, Easter is more than just chocolate and bunnies. It is a time for deep reflection on the ultimate sacrifice made on the cross and the profound miracle of the empty tomb. The resurrection is a message of eternal hope and the victory of light over darkness. The reality of the risen Christ is the truth that anchors our lives, provides the foundation for the strong family units and makes our communities so resilient. In a world that can often feel divided, the Easter message of forgiveness and renewal remains a constant. It's a time to pause, to gather with our loved ones and to give thanks for the blessings we share in this great nation.

I wish every person in Dawson a safe, happy and holy Easter. May your homes be filled with peace, and may the true spirit of this season bring everlasting hope to us all.