September 14, 2022
South Burnett residents who would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II have been urged to sign an official online condolence book.
The Queen’s death at age 96 was announced on Friday morning.
Messages of condolence and support for the Royal Family can be conveyed via the official State of Queensland Condolence Book.
The messages will be collated and forwarded via Government House to Buckingham Palace.
Anyone who needs help in leaving an online message of condolence have been invited to visit any of the South Burnett Regional Council’s Customer Service Centres or libraries.
- External link: State Of Queensland Condolence Book
* * *
Member for Maranoa David Littleproud described Her Majesty as “a shining light of great hope and comfort for communities across regional, rural and remote Australia”.
“Her Majesty was a frequent visitor of regional Australia and held a great fondness and affinity with the determination and spirit of our communities,” he said.
“This fondness for regional Australia was reflected in our communities through celebrations such as our Royal Agricultural shows. Entry and participation into these shows has been traditionally a chance to showcase a regions’ finest for judging as a prize suitable for The Queen.
“In the midst of regional Australia’s toughest times Her Majesty provided many messages of support and strength. These efforts showed her true kindness, humanity and leadership which Her Majesty brought to the role and is one that will be sorely missed.
“Australia is the lucky country and part of that luck has been due to the fact Her Majesty has been able to reign over us. The stability Her Majesty has provided has improved the lives of many.
“Loyalty to the Crown is at the heart of The Nationals values and enshrined in our Party’s constitution. Regional Australia will be devastated by Her Majesty’s passing but can take great comfort knowing Her Majesty is now at peace.”
* * *
South Burnett Mayor Brett Otto said the South Burnett community was mourning the death of the Queen and remembering her lifetime of tireless service.
“The Council and the people of our region offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family who are grieving for a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her legacy will live on through them,” Mayor Otto said.
“Her historic reign over seven decades was characterised by an unwavering devotion to duty, family, faith and service and she will be sadly missed by us all.”
* * *
Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig also said the Queen would be missed.
“Whether you support the monarchy or not we can all agree that Queen Elizabeth was a profound woman who carried herself at all times with dignity and poise. Her actions, character and commitment to principles was an example to leaders all around the world,” he said.
* * *
Toowoomba Mayor Paul Antonio also paid tribute to the late Queen.
He said Her Majesty was an incredible leader of the Commonwealth.
“She was a remarkable woman who left behind an amazing legacy that will be remembered forever,” Mayor Antonio said.
“Some residents will still remember with fondness the Queen and Prince Philip’s visit to Toowoomba in 1954.
“After taking reign at such an early age, she forged strong partnerships throughout the world that remain beneficial to us today.
“She was a strong and courageous woman who led with dignity and inspired many of us to be better leaders.
“Her strength of character always prevailed and with her passing there is no doubt we will miss her calming influence.
“Our condolences are with her family at this time and as a sign of mourning and respect our flags will fly at half-mast to remember this incredible woman.”
* * *
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will send condolences on behalf of Queensland to Buckingham Palace.
“Queen Elizabeth was loved and respected, and represented all that was dignified and positive in the Royal Family,” the Premier said.
“Her Majesty was a constant reminder of the true meaning of service, integrity and courage, and she was admired around the world, especially here in Queensland.”
Just nine months after her Coronation, the Queen arrived in Brisbane on March 9, 1954.
Her Majesty stayed at Government House and her busy itinerary included regional visits to Bundaberg, Oakey, Toowoomba, Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton and the Great Barrier Reef.
This was the first of the Queen’s 16 visits to Australia, and eight to Queensland.
“On her final visit to Queensland in October 2011, Her Majesty paid tribute to the resilience and courage of Queenslanders in the aftermath of the floods and Cyclone Yasi,” the Premier said.
Our very deepest condolences to the Royal Family on the demise of a true Legend Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The world has lost a true leader.