Speeches
Wednesday, 07 August 2024
Ice Factor Foundation Reception
Rod and I are delighted to welcome you all to Government House.
We have been visiting schools to meet students and I know some of you have been there when we’ve visited “your place”.
Now it’s great to see you at “our place”, either again or for the first time.
As Patron of Ice Factor, I am particularly keen to know how you are going.
I congratulate each and every one of you on being part of the program and gaining important skills.
I also congratulate the five participants who will receive certificates for demonstrating Ice Factor values for an extended period of time, both as a team mate and as a leader.
All of you, by being part of Ice Factor, are showing real commitment.
It’s not easy standing on those thin blades on the ice, let alone skating, or taking on the other team and scoring goals through speed, agility and determination. I’m a little bit in awe of you.
In many ways sport, with its speed and changing aspects, reflects life. Both have their challenges and can sometimes take us out of our comfort zones.
But by taking part, sport gives us ways to work as a team towards a common goal.
You have learned how to be the best you possibly can.
You have kept statistics, increased your numeracy skills, you have learned leadership.
To play well in a team you have to be flexible, listen to others, have self-discipline, set goals, and trust each other.
You need to have an alternative path when things aren’t going to plan. To know how to pick yourselves up when the other side wins this time.
I know that life isn’t always straightforward and there are hurdles to overcome. I know there have been times you have had to deal with some serious struggles.
But what you gave gained from Ice Factor has, I am sure, helped you deal with those challenges.
As you go through life you will be part of many different teams that have different structures.
You are already a part of a family, a school, a sporting team, a group of friends. In the future you will be part of other teams such as volunteer teams, work teams, study teams or social groups.
And right now, Ice Factor is your team. Somewhere that you feel you belong.
I thank Marie Shaw for her vision and undoubted passion for the Ice Factor Program and everyone involved: sponsors, teachers, donors, and volunteers who support this year’s 20 teams.
Everyone, please be proud of your achievements, because Rod and I, Marie, Enzo, your teachers, and family are all proud of you.
You have all shown each other, and importantly yourselves, what you can do.