2014 Australia Day message
26th January, 2014
Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss, today encouraged all residents and visitors to our region to join in celebrations for Australia Day on Sunday, January 26.“Australians have much to celebrate and be proud of on our national day. Our land, our people, diversity and culture, our freedom and democracy, and our belief in a fair go, are all distinctive features of our nation’s character, built over generations,” Mr Truss said.
“Australia Day also provides an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate the unique Australian spirit that has shone through again, during the recent bush fires that have affected so many communities in Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia.
“It is a cruel twist of fate that in Queensland, during this same period last year, many regional communities, including those in Wide Bay, were battling floods. Now, nearly 65 per cent of Queensland is drought declared.
“Despite these adversities, the Australian spirit of mateship and goodwill brings family, friends, neighbours and strangers together, to do as much as they can to help their fellow Aussies in need. As always, the support and generousity from the volunteer effort has been outstanding.
“Australia Day is an important occasion to look to the future, consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and decide how we can make the most of them.
“Our nation and our people are known for our innovation, tenacity, diligence and compassion and these characteristics help to sustain us through the difficult times. We should reflect on the privileges and benefits we have as Australians, where people from many different backgrounds are able to live in peace and share in everything our country has to offer.
“The Commonwealth of Australia was created by years of skilful negotiation and the democratic choice of the people. Our unique Australian system of Westminster democracy, our constitution and flag, serve our country well and are important fundamentals of the Australia we all hold dear.
“Our future success cannot be taken for granted. We must continue to be vigilant and build on our past achievements to ensure that our country remains great in the future.
“Almost every city, town and community captures some of the spirit of our national day through locally organised events and commemorations and I encourage everyone to participate in the celebrations.”
