**Check against delivery**

Thank you, Stephanie.

And, to everyone, welcome to the Motherland Conference and many of you, welcome to Tasmania

It’s fitting that our home plays host to the inaugural conference, given our very own Steph founded Motherland from her farm here in Central Northern Tasmania.

Some may think of Tasmania as one big country town.

In the very best way, it can be….

Tasmanians are pretty laid back and salt of the earth sorts who call it how it is.

And while as Premier I can speak so proudly of our producers of the finest food and beverage, the skilled manufacturers, the scientists, the artists and the entrepreneurs – The very best can lay claim to being the very best in the world – what I’m most proud about - is they don’t create a fuss or boast or brag. They just get on with the job – In Tasmania we call it the quiet pursuit of the extraordinary.

But, like anywhere there are tough times too…

The isolation that naturally comes with being an island state is amplified when you live out in our regions.

That sense of out of sight, out of mind can feel very real.

That’s why Steph’s mission to connect and celebrate rural mums across the country is so important.

As a rural dad, I can attest to why we must celebrate our rural mums, because I’m lucky enough to be married to one.

Sandra and I raised our girls Ruby, Lucy and Holly on our family farm at Sassafras, about an hour or so from here.

We’re a rural family, our hearts are on the land.

And while I won’t pretend to know the challenges that come with being a rural mum, there are certainly some values that we’ve learned as a rural family that have helped us through rough spots from time to time.

They’re values that have shaped my approach to family, work, life and politics.

You treat people as you find them – always with respect, you don’t put off to tomorrow what you can do today, you look out for neighbours because they look out for you, the work changes as the seasons change – and the seasons always change.

You build, always build, because life’s too short to rest on your laurels, your word is your bond - and you honour it. Always. Even if it hurts. And home is the foundation for whatever you want to achieve in life.

Of course, there are days when you need more to get you through.

You need a little extra support, encouragement, someone by your side – not to talk but to listen.

I see many people and organisations, such as Motherland reach out and connect with rural Tasmanians particularly when times are tough. One of those organisations close to my heart is Rural Alive and Well.

I’ve seen firsthand the immeasurable value of support services like Rural Alive and Well, and I’m so pleased to announce that we’ll be investing another $1.6 million to continue their important Community Engagement and Support Services.

It’s all about making sure no one feels alone.

You might not be able to see your neighbour over the fence, but you know they’re there.

That’s why Motherland is so important.

And, why every one of you here today is so important.

One conversation. One text message. Or, Finding your Tribe through the Motherland Village can make all the difference in someone’s life.

And, you all coming together here today, will make one massive difference.

Again, I congratulate you Steph.

And, to everyone - I welcome you all to the inaugural Motherland 2024 National Conference.