Dinner in Support of Eco Energy World

Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment, the Honourable Cameron Dick MP; Founder and CEO of Eco Energy World, Mr Svante Kumlin; Executive Vice-President and Head of the Global Business Development Group for LG Chemical, Mr Sung Woo Hur; distinguished guests, welcome.

I begin by acknowledging the original custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and extend respectful greetings to Elders, past, present and emerging.

Graeme and I welcome you all to the magnificent dining room of Government House—which has been the scene of many historic gatherings over the years. We are delighted to be sharing this special evening with you.

Last month in London, we met Eco Energy World CEO, Mr Svante Kumlin, at a small dinner hosted by the Agent-General for Queensland to the United Kingdom, Mr Dave Stewart.

Tonight, we are pleased to have another opportunity to learn more about the exciting large-scale solar farm, hydrogen and ammonia plant that EEW H2 – a sister company of Eco Energy World – is constructing at Raglan, near Gladstone, and further strengthen the links our State already has with the organisation through their many solar farm developments here.

As Governor of Queensland, I am incredibly proud that our State is at the forefront of the green hydrogen movement in Australia, and believe we have the potential to become a world-leader in this pioneering, transformative sector.

Significantly, this also means that Queensland will be moving further and more swiftly along the path to carbon neutrality—which is so vital to the future health of our entire planet.

Yet, the growth and development of Queensland into the dynamic, vibrant and economically strong place it is today, is not something we have achieved alone.

Throughout our history, we have always valued strong partnerships with other countries, sharing a common sense of purpose in our endeavours, and benefitting from the richness that different perspectives bring.

Your interest and involvement in our State are crucial to ensuring that new ventures such as this one are successful, and so we thank you all for travelling such a long way to discover more about our unique assets.

When it comes to green hydrogen, Queensland has much to offer. With our abundant and reliable supply of renewable energy sources, our growing infrastructure capabilities, and our expertise and enthusiasm, we are well positioned to become a major force in the production and export of clean fuel.

Additionally, the Gladstone region has long embraced an enterprising spirit, is home to one of Australia’s most important, deep-water export ports, is a well-serviced regional city, and a boat lover’s paradise!

I believe that when all of these impressive attributes are connected with a common sense of purpose, exceptional outcomes can be achieved, and I am looking forward to seeing this innovative industry continue to flourish in our State.

I wish you all every success in your ventures, and thank you again for being here this evening.