This week the Governor and Mr Howard attended the Premier’s Anniversary of ANZAC Day Luncheon.
The Governor and Mr Howard are committed to celebrating diversity and promoting respect in the Victorian community. On Monday, members of the Victorian Bar Rainbow and Allies Group were given a tour of the State Apartments before meeting with the Governor. The Governor and Mr Howard have previously hosted several LGBTQIA+ groups and events at Government House including a reception in 2017 to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia. Speaking to members of the Victorian Bar Rainbow and Allies Group, the Governor thanked them for encouraging inclusivity and acceptance within the legal sector. Learn more about the Victorian Bar’s inclusivity initiatives here.
On Thursday, the Governor and Mr Anthony Howard AM KC, attended the Premier’s Anniversary of ANZAC Day State Luncheon. The annual event, which the Governor and Mr Howard have attended on previous occasions, commemorates the anniversary of ANZAC Day and celebrates the service of veterans. The lunch included a collection of work from ‘The Persona Project’ exhibition. The Persona exhibition has been a five-year collaboration between the Australian National Veterans Art Museum, photographer Michael Christofas and veteran artists. It aims to generate understanding of the veteran community and their artistic pursuits. Speaking at the event, the Governor acknowledged the sacrifices of current and former members of the Australian Defence Force and reflected on the importance of remembrance. Read the Governor’s speech here.
Acting as an advocate for Victorian Industry is an important component of the Governor’s contemporary role. On Monday, the Governor hosted a lunch marking the 150th anniversary of Rio Tinto. Originally founded in 1873 in Spain, Rio Tinto now works in 35 countries and is the world’s second-largest mining company. In the face of a changing environment, it is committed to innovation and finding better ways to provide metals and minerals globally. Rio Tinto’s Head Office for the region is located in Melbourne.
In 2026, Victoria will host the Commonwealth Games. The focus will be on Regional Victoria with events taking place in Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Gippsland, and Shepparton. On Wednesday, the Governor met with Dame Louise Martin DBE, President of the Commonwealth Games Federation. The Governor has previously met with Dame Louise on several occasions including the 2022 Commonwealth Games Handover Ceremony in Birmingham where the Governor represented the State of Victoria as Chief Citizen. On Wednesday, the Governor also met with Jeroen Weimar, CEO of the Victoria 2026 Organising Committee. The meetings were an important opportunity to discuss the continued plans for the Victoria 2026 Games.
Throughout the week, the Governor received the call of John Pesutto, Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs; His Excellency Mr Yamagami Shingo, Ambassador of Japan, and Madame Yamagami Kaour; His Excellency Mr Ufuk Gezer, Ambassador of Türkiye; and Rob Holland, Executive Director of the Economic Development and International Branch of the Department of Premier and Cabinet. The Governor also received the virtual call of Professor Adam Fennessy PSM, CEO and Dean of the Australia and New Zealand School of Government.