Speeches
Monday, 28 October 2024
Reception for Lions Children of Courage Awards
Rod and I warmly welcome you all to Government House.
We especially welcome those who have travelled from regional areas.
It is my great pleasure to be an honorary member of the City of Adelaide Lions Club, the oldest Lions Club in South Australia.
During the past 34 years, hundreds of South Australian children living with disability have received Children of Courage awards, most of which have been presented here at Government House.
It’s a fine tradition and one I have had the honour of continuing over the past three years.
As patron of organisations such as Lions Medical Research Foundation SA, Novita Children’s Services and Community Living Australia, it is my pleasure to engage with young people with disability.
Our young nominees this evening have a very strong spirit, showing great bravery and positivity, and I thank them for the inspiration they offer to others.
As Governor, I have the opportunity, with Rod to meet South Australians of all ages and backgrounds, and to hear their stories, including their challenges and how they have overcome them.
It is a privilege to host our award winners this evening and to meet their families and supporters.
I thank the organisations and schools who nominated their students and clients for a Children of Courage award for identifying these children as deserving candidates and developing thoughtful nominations for them.
I also thank the carers, medical and therapy staff and teachers who have joined us.
A wide support system is necessary for giving all children the best start in life, especially if they have special needs.
I thank you for your devotion and hard work.
Thank you to the Lions Club of Adelaide for running these awards, and for your many other current activities, such as making support items for people in hospital, literacy projects for vulnerable youth, and various fundraising activities for charity.
A special thank you to the judges. It is great to have Patricia Brougham, Libby Kosmala, Mr Ripu Gill and Mrs Kaleeda Rasheed here this evening.
It is my pleasure as Governor to engage with Lions groups across South Australia, including during visits to regional areas, and to see this work in action.
To all of our children here this evening, congratulations! Rod and I am very proud of you.