David Littleproud (Maranoa, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, Queensland, is a tourism landmark dedicated to the story behind the song of our famous Banjo Paterson's Waltzing Matilda, and the only museum in the world dedicated to a song, a song that quickly became the favourite of our Australian troops during the 1915 Gallipoli campaign. Sadly, in June last year, this iconic Australian museum was ravaged by fire in what was a gut-wrenching blow to Central West Queensland and the nation.

Despite this tragic event, in true outback style the Winton community, as our nation's custodians of our national song, has pushed forward.

Over the past 15 months the community has tirelessly worked on preserving what remained and planning for a future rebuild.

I am proud to say that last week the federal government announced $8 million through the National Stronger Regions Fund towards rebuilding this centre. This is truly deserved by the community for their efforts and is a tiny reprieve for Winton following years of drought. I offer my sincere thanks to each and every person who helped, from those fighting the fire to those working in the clean-up or planning for the new build. I also thank the Winton Shire Council for their dedication, in particular Mayor Butch Lenton, whose commitment to rebuild was unwavering. I am very much looking forward to the reopening of the renowned landmark just in time for Waltzing Matilda Day in April 2018.