Warren Entsch (Leichhardt, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Saturday evening, the Far North Queensland Emergency Services Association held its annual Emergency Services Charity Gala Ball—an evening not just with glitz and glamour but for purpose and passion. The association was established following a heart-wrenching tragedy at Ravenshoe, in the Atherton Tablelands, back in 2015, when a vehicle unfortunately smashed into a cafe and people's lives were lost, and it has raised over a quarter of a million dollars in the years that have followed. This year, the ball's proceeds were directed towards the Fire Project, a commendable initiative dedicated to diverting our youth from a path of crime and guiding them to mentorship, leadership and support.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Far North Queensland Emergency Services Association president John-Byron Bacalakis, the committee and all of those who made this year's gala ball a reality. While I am disappointed I wasn't able to share the night with you, I am immensely proud of our community's continued resilience and generous spirit. Lastly, I'd like to commend the unwavering dedication of our local emergency services personnel. Your service to our community not just in times of dire emergency but in fostering community spirit and offering support to important causes is truly admirable.