In September, news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II deeply saddened us as a country and Commonwealth. The community outpour here on the southern Gold Coast has displayed the collective respect and gratitude we have for Her Majesty's seven decades of service as our Queen.
In the days following Her Majesty's passing, I was at a number of local shopping centres to provide residents and tourists visiting our region with an opportunity to write condolence messages. Having spent time at The Pines Elanora, Burleigh Stockland and The Strand Coolangatta, it was overwhelming to see firsthand how much Her Majesty meant to so many people. Following Her Majesty's funeral and National Memorial Service, I sent the messages to be posted on to Buckingham Palace.
In the most recent sitting week in Parliament, I introduced legislation into the House of Representatives that would further strengthen cyber security in relation to ransomware, by increasing penalties for those who target our critical infrastructure. The Optus incident has shown the need for vigilance and action in this area, and it has been disappointing to see Labor asleep at the wheel.
To mark National Police Rembrance Day on the 29th of September, I moved a motion in Parliament to commemorate those in uniform who have died in the line of duty. It is an important occasion that renews our gratitude for our state and federal police officers, and strengthens our resolve to best support them.
I attended the National Peacekeepers' Day commemoration at the Burleigh Heads RSL. One of its kind in Queensland, the service honoured the thousands of Australian service men and women that have contributed to peacekeeping missions over the past 75 years, particularly commemorating the 16 service personnel that have lost their lives.
Also in Burleigh was the incredible 85th Anniversary of the iconic Burleigh Heads Bowls Club. I was delighted to spend the afternoon in celebration of all the club has provided to our community.
I recently had the pleasure of attending and speaking at the 30th Anniversary of the Mudgeeraba Uniting Church Op Shop. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community, and it is always important to recognise those who selflessly give their time in service our community.
Continuing on the theme of great community celebrations, the David Fleay Wildlife Park had it's 75th birthday this month. The tourism and services that the park provides is fantastic for our region, and I had the joy of being there for the unveiling of the new David Fleay statue.
Whether it's speaking at local events, or visiting great local organisations, it is always a privilege to be out and about in our community.
As always, my office is available to help you with any federal issues, so please reach out!
Kind Regards,
