CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms LANDRY (Capricornia—Chief Nationals Whip) (09:53): I rise today to pay tribute to a true Queenslander and a remarkable public servant, Vince Lester OAM, who passed away this week at the age of 87. For nearly three decades, Vince served the people of regional Queensland in the state parliament, representing the electorates of Belyando, Peak Downs and Keppel.
He dedicated his life to public service and to improving the lives of the communities he represented. Vince's long parliamentary career, from 1974 to 2004, reflected the trust and respect he earned from the people of Central Queensland. While Vince was a proud National Party member, those who knew him understood that he transcended political parties.
He was respected across the political divide because of the way he treated people—with genuine interest, humility and integrity. I was fortunate enough to know Vince personally, and one of the things I remember most vividly is that he was always carrying a notebook. Wherever he went, whether it was a community event, a meeting or simply talking with locals, Vince would listen carefully and write things down.
He understood that every conversation mattered and every concern deserved attention. But what made Vince special was that those notes were never just notes; he followed up. If someone raised an issue, Vince would pursue it.
If someone needed help, Vince would do everything he could to assist. He believed representation was about more than making speeches—it was about listening, acting and delivering for the people who place their trust in you. That is why he was a real man of the people.
He never lost touch with the communities he served, and he never forgot that public office is a privilege. Whether it was a farmer, a small-business owner, a pensioner or a volunteer, Vince treated everyone with the same respect and gave everyone his time. Vince's contribution can be seen across Central Queensland, but perhaps his greatest legacy is the example he set for those who followed him in public life.
He showed that good representation starts with listening, that relationships matter and that politics is ultimately about people. I'll always be grateful for the encouragement and guidance Vince gave me in the early days of my own political journey. When I first put up my hand as a candidate, Vince was generous with his time, his advice and his experience.
He understood the challenges of representing regional Queensland, and he helped me appreciate the importance of staying connected to people on the ground. Even after I was elected as the member for Capricornia, Vince continued to offer quiet support and wise counsel, always reminding me that the job was about serving the community first. On behalf of the people of Capricornia, I extend my sincere condolences to Vince's family and all who loved and admired him.
Vince Lester leaves behind a lifetime of service, a reputation for hard work and a legacy of genuine community leadership. He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered. May he rest in peace.