CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Ms LANDRY (Capricornia—Chief Nationals Whip) (16:00): I recently had the pleasure of attending the Brian Dorey OAM Capricorn Coast Aquatic Centre and visiting Koorana Crocodile Farm on the Capricorn Coast. They are very different places, but both show exactly what makes our region so special. When we support local tourism and community infrastructure, we create opportunities for local jobs, bring people together and make Capricornia an even better place to live and visit.

The opening of the Brian Dorey OAM Capricorn Coast Aquatic Centre was a really proud moment for our community. With $13 million in Commonwealth funding, this project has delivered a new 50-metre heated pool, modern facilities, better accessibility, upgraded filtration, shade areas and community spaces for locals to enjoy. It is an investment in water safety, health and recreation and will benefit local families, schools, sporting groups and visitors for years to come.

It's the sort of community facility that becomes part of everyday life, where kids learn to swim, clubs train and families come together. It is very fitting that the centre is named after Brian Dorey OAM, whose contribution to local sport and recreation has left such a strong legacy on the Capricorn Coast. It's wonderful to see that legacy honoured in a facility that will serve the community well into the future.

I really enjoyed my visit to Koorana Crocodile Farm. Established in 1981 by John and Lillian Lever and now run with their son Adam, it is one of those truly unique local attractions that we are so lucky to have on the Capricorn Coast. From the up close encounters to the passionate knowledge of the team, Koorana is the kind of place that leaves a real impression and shows off the best of our region.

I had my grandson with me on the day, and while he was a little unsure about holding a baby croc at first, he soon found his courage and absolutely loved it. That is what makes places like Koorana so special. During COVID, I was proud to support the farm through its adopt-a-croc program, and it was lovely to be back to see Mason and Maggie, the crocodiles I sponsored during that time.

Whether it's a fantastic new aquatic centre for local families or a unique tourism experience like Koorana, these places are incredibly important to our region. They support local jobs, bring visitors to the area and showcase the very best of Central Queensland. They give local families even more reasons to stay, spend and enjoy everything our region has to offer.

I will always back investments and local attractions that help our communities grow and thrive. I encourage everyone to get out, support local and enjoy everything the Capricorn Coast has to offer.