Ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured to be with you today and to be part of this significant day: the 70th Anniversary of the bombing of Darwin.

It gives me much pride to be an Ambassador for these very special commemoration events. 

My friends, the 19th of February 1942 was a tragic day in our nation’s history.

The first attack by a foreign power since Federation.

An assault on our freedom and our innocence.

Australian and Allied Armed Forces personnel lost their lives.

So, too, did many civilians.

Territorians going about their daily lives; suddenly indiscriminate targets.

Men, women and children.

Workers on the wharves, shopkeepers, those in the post office – all casualties of war.

This weekend gives the people of Darwin and Northern Australia a time to reflect on that day.

Moments of remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives for our country.

To also acknowledge those survivors and veterans who lived through the horror of the 19th of February 1942.

They have their own unique story to tell. The Top End was our garrison.

Two hundred and forty three lives were lost and many hundreds of others were severely injured. 

The awful human cost of war.

Today we have an opportunity to honour them with dignity.

To thank them for the peace we have all enjoyed since that time. 

I would like to congratulate the Chief Minister and the Lord Mayor on the outstanding program of activities.

The events and respectful ceremonies organised for this anniversary will make Territorians feel proud of their sacrifice and contribution to our strength and independence as a nation.

More importantly the broader Australian community will be better informed about the bombing of Darwin.

They will have a greater understanding of this important benchmark in our history.

Younger Australians, especially, need to embrace this significant national event.

Friends I love the Territory.

Experiences here have enriched my professional and personal life.

I first came in the 1960s as a Law Tutor from the University of Queensland to teach external students – just a handful of them – our classes in the beautiful old Darwin Hotel. 

Michael, too, fondly remembers his time here for Air Force exercises with 23 Squardon.

We always feel at home and we look forward to every visit. 

Being a part of today’s commemoration adds to our treasure trove of Territory memories.

Thank you for sharing this very special occasion.