Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Morning Tea With Governor Young

A warm community spirit permeated the air of the Burdekin Theatre at the Community Morning Tea event, hosted by Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort over the weekend. The event extended a warm welcome to Queensland’s Governor Dr Jeanette Young and her husband and was attended by local leaders, healthcare professionals, and community members, producing an atmosphere thick with camaraderie, optimism and hope despite the recent challenges faced by the Burdekin and its people.

Mayor Dalle Cort hospitably embraced many distinguished guests, including Christy Walsh, the Director of Community and Engagement, Tracy Gabiola, Director of Nursing in Ayr, and Lorraine Dempsey Director of Nursing in Home Hill.

During the event, the Mayor recalled hearing Dr Young's speech at Parliament House and her swearing in pledge to visit every hospital across Queensland, including the hospitals of Ayr and Home Hill.

Mayor Dalle Cort expressed pride and gratitude, stating “We are very honoured to have Dr Young here, particularly following her visit less than a month ago during the recent floods," said the Mayor before presenting Dr Young with a gift symbolising Burdekin's appreciation.

Dr Young reciprocated the warm hospitality, praising Burdekin's resilience and unity during the crises it faced. She underscored the strength and ingenuity demonstrated within the community, drawing particular attention to efforts in sustainable agriculture and youth leadership.

Reflecting on recent flooding and the challenges it presented, Dr Young commended local emergency services and the Burdekin Shire Council’s swift and staunch response.

“Gatherings like this morning tea provide opportunities not only to celebrate achievements, acknowledge the ongoing challenges you face while reaffirming our commitment to the future of this beautiful region” said Dr. Young, accentuating the importance of community collaboration.

Both leaders emphasised Burdekin's core strengths - its people, their resilience and proactive spirit, which promise future growth and prosperity. Attendees left inspired by the community’s ongoing dedication to overcoming challenges through grit, innovation and unity.

Professor Graeme Nimmo, Governor Dr Jeanette Young, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort. Photo taken by: Munir Kilic

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2c6cvez2

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