John McVeigh (Groom, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It was a great honour to attend and speak at the launch of the 2017 Toowoomba Red Shield Appeal official opening function at Fitzy's Tapestry Function Room last week. Together with local business and community members, we were guests of Lieutenant-Colonel David Godkin, the divisional commander of the Salvation Army Queensland Division, and my good mate Michael McNab, chair of the Toowoomba Appeal Committee. Launched by Mayor Paul Antonio, MC'd by Councillor Geoff McDonald, and attended by the state member for Toowoomba South, David Janetzki, and the state member for Toowoomba North, Trevor Watts, this was truly a community affair, focused on the vital need to raise funds for the Salvo's work. We heard a moving and heartfelt testimony from a young person from Brisbane who was being assisted by the Salvos on the next step in their life, given a difficult upbringing and a history of domestic violence. That person's assistance into their adult life, work opportunities and study, was truly a wonderful story to hear.

I am sure I join with all members of this House in encouraging all to give most generously to the Red Shield Appeal this year. God bless the Salvos and thank God for the Salvos.