CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Vietnam Veterans’ Day
Hinkler Electorate: Acknowledgements
Mr BATT (Hinkler—Deputy Nationals Whip) (17:11)
Today we commemorate Vietnam Veterans’ Day, and I’m forever proud to say that my electorate of Hinkler is home to many who served. They are the ones who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. To the Hinkler Vietnam veterans and their families: I acknowledge your service, dedication and sacrifice.
Today is the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which took place 60 years ago. This morning my staff laid wreaths at services at Hervey Bay Light Horse Memorial in Freedom Park, at the Defence Veterans Drop-In Centre in Bundaberg and at the Childers commemoration held at the Krupp Cannon memorial. Today we say thank you to the almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War. As the member for Hinkler, I am proud to represent a region with such a rich history of standing up and fighting for Australia.
Only a couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to catch up with veterans at the Hervey Bay RSL for their monthly Veterans Day social gathering, with live music, raffles and trivia but, most importantly, veterans coming together to connect and share a laugh. I’d like to acknowledge the RSL sub-branch committee, including President Brad Gray and treasurer Tracy Gillespie, and all those who make this monthly event possible.
It’s always a privilege to recognise the special milestone that is turning 100. Much-loved Hervey Bay local Heather Drury celebrated in style recently with her family, with three generations coming together to plant a tree in her honour at the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens. She is a proud long-time local with deep connections to our community. Drury Lane at Dundowran carries the family name, and Heather was still living there until recently, when she moved into care. And the secret to 100 years? A glass of red wine and a great family. Happy birthday, Heather.
During the winter recess, it was the season for Queensland Country Women’s Association AGMs. I had the honour of attending several of these. The QCWA continues to make huge contributions to our regional communities. They support the vulnerable, and, through craft, cooking and so much more, they keep our community connected. I acknowledge Rhonda Dawson from the Hinkler QCWA for her 50 years with the branch, joining as a founding member. The Bundaberg branch celebrated its 102nd birthday, with president Lyn Rehbein correctly pointing out: if there’s a need, the CWA will be there.
No matter what it is, from our fine foods to famous tipples, the Hinkler electorate knows how to produce the world’s best. That also includes our sporting stars. I want to offer my congratulations to Zac Hutton on becoming the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Champion in the 25 to 29 year cruiser men’s class. Well done on bringing the world No. 1 plate home to the Bundaberg BMX Club. Well done to Zac. And to cricketer Lucy Hamilton, a star of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Lord’s in England: it doesn’t get much better. Well done, Lucy.