Speeches
Friday, 29 November 2024
Luncheon for the Czech President
My husband Rod and I warmly welcome you all to South Australia and Government House, the oldest Government House in Australia. I trust you are enjoying your time in Adelaide.
South Australia has long and proud ties to the Czech Republic, stemming as far back as 1870 when Roman Catholic missionaries from the former provinces of Bohemia and Moravia settled in Sevenhill.
This beautiful region is about two hours’ drive from here in the Clare Valley wine region - where I had the pleasure of revisiting just two weeks ago.
The missionaries grew olives and fruit and, as has so often been the case, migrants from the other side of the world brought skills and knowledge to help build our agricultural industries, including our renowned wine industry, in the formative years of the colony.
Since then, we have grown and developed as a forward-thinking and progressive society that has much to offer the world in terms of commodities, science, medical research, and emerging industries.
Adelaide is proud to be known as the wine capital of Australia, producing 80% of Australia’s premium wines, a taste of which you will enjoy over lunch, including a Riesling from Sevenhill winery.
Our own Federal Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator, The Hon Don Farrell, who hails from South Australia, knows well the joy and value of the wine industry, as the owner of a vineyard and boutique winery near Sevenhill in the Clare Valley.
And, with our Foreign Affairs Minister and Leader of the Government in the Senate, Senator the Hon Penny Wong also hailing from South Australia, our State is well connected to the trade and foreign policy spheres.
While our two countries are separated by distance, we both share interests in developing science, engineering, education, arts, and trade.
While the Czech population in South Australia is relatively small, the Czechoslovak Club in Adelaide ensures ties with the culture endure.
As you would be aware from your discussions over the past few days, alongside our traditional strengths in agriculture, mining and defence industries, South Australia is increasing becoming a world leader in energy renewables, space industries, and environmental sustainability.
I am pleased your visit has introduced you to innovative businesses here and will tomorrow introduce you to our natural environment and wildlife, with visits to the Botanic Gardens and Cleland Wildlife Park.
Your Excellency, thank you for visiting Adelaide and contributing to a deepening our ties forged through mutually beneficial relationships.
I wish you all the very best for your remaining time in Australia.
Šťastnou cestu (schtast noo cest ou (safe travels)