Speeches
Friday, 08 November 2024
Reception for the presentation of medallions to fellows of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust
I am delighted to welcome you all and, in many cases, to welcome you back to Government House.
This morning we close the circle: awarding medallions that recognise the completion of your Fellowships and the accomplishment of something very special.
Churchill’s face adorns the medallion you will receive – and his expression is one of resolve.
You too have shown determination – striving to expand your knowledge and to acquire learning from abroad that can benefit your fellow Australians.
Churchill was many things: a soldier, politician, bricklayer, war correspondent, historian, author and butterfly breeder.
Your areas of exploration, in your Fellowships, have been even more diverse.
They touch on history, remote Indigenous communities, mental health, artisan baking, homelessness, and pulse proteins.
You have also explored issues relating to child protection, reducing landfill, increasing political engagement, spinal and brain injuries, and mathematics.
I encourage you to share widely what you have learnt and the insights you have gained.
In doing so, you enrich our community; you foster innovation; you support others.
And you help Australia address challenges that benefit from fresh ideas and new approaches.
Great programs like this rely on great work being done behind the scenes.
I thank the members and supporters of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust and the Churchill Fellows Association of South Australia.
Your efforts and your time – or financial support – are creating opportunities that strengthen our community and safeguard our future.
I also thank family members and supporters of the Fellows.
To the Fellows: well done!
Completing your Fellowship is a terrific achievement, and I hope you savour this moment.
It is both a celebration and an opportunity to reflect on what you’ve achieved, and what lies ahead using the insights you’ve gained.
In the coming years, I urge you to keep on taking opportunities, and to keep on stepping up to make a difference – in South Australia and at a national level.
Your desire for knowledge and your willingness to identify contemporary solutions are a powerful combination.
They help to enrich our community, strengthen our nation, and support the wellbeing of its citizens.
Thank you for the work you have undertaken. I wish you well and warmly congratulate each of you.