Governor-General returns to the Scenic Rim

Beechmont residents appreciated the return visit from the Governor-General of Australia His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley.

The Governor-General of Australia His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, visited the Scenic Rim today to pay homage to the communities impacted by the 2019 September bushfires.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the visit was a heart-warming reminder of Their Excellencies’ genuine compassion and concern for their fellow Australians.

"Today's visit builds on the Governor-General’s promise to return following his October 2019 visit in the wake of the devastating bushfires that impacted the eastern part of the region," he said.

"It was indeed an honour to host them both today, and observing their interactions, it was clearly evident that they both genuinely care about the long-term recovery for those impacted residents and community groups."

The Governor-General said it was a privilege to be back in the region.

“Linda and I are delighted to be able to return to Binna Burra and the Scenic Rim region, visit Beechmont and to spend time in the community,' he said.

“We know recovery and rebuilding following natural disasters such as the devastating bushfires we saw in 2019 and 2020 takes time.

"We’re continuously reassured by the strength on display in our communities, the determination of residents to rebuild and the compassion that they show for each other.”

Division 3 Councillor Viriginia West said from her conversations with the community, the Governor-General's visit was much appreciated.

"When you go through a devastating event like the 2019 bushfires, it's life changing and healing can take years and often the scars never leave us," she said.

"Knowing that the Governor-General and his wife made it a priority to come back to the region and check on our people has meant a lot to all of us."

The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley started their itinerary with a visit to Binna Burra Lodge, before attending an intimate afternoon tea at Beechmont, which enabled them both to have meaningful conversations with attendees. 

Image: Beechmont residents appreciated the return visit from the Governor-General of Australia His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley.