Speeches
Friday, 01 May 2026
Generations in Jazz Welcome Concert
It is a pleasure to be in Mount Gambier for Generations in Jazz – an event I heard about four and a half years ago during my first visit as Governor.
It was described as something quite extraordinary – something you have to see – and hear - to believe.
I think I can now understand why.
It is remarkable to have more than 5,000 students, from across Australia and, for the first time, New Zealand, gathered here to perform, compete, learn, and be challenged.
They have spent months – often years – preparing, balancing school, rehearsals, and other commitments, and they arrive ready to perform.
That matters, because what they are stepping into is demanding.
Jazz expects a great deal from its performers.
It asks musicians to listen closely, to respond in real time, to work as an ensemble, and at the same time, take creative risks.
That balance is not easy, and that is exactly what makes Generations in Jazz such a powerful learning environment.
Here, students are surrounded by musicians at the highest level, seeing how professionals approach timing, tone, ensemble balance, improvisation, and communication.
This is where classroom learning becomes real, and where talent is tested in front of peers, adjudicators, and leading musicians.
That kind of exposure can reshape how a young musician understands their potential.
The school competitions set a clear national benchmark, recognising achievement and giving students the experience of performing at a high level.
The Superband builds on that, bringing together standout performers into a single ensemble.
Scholarships, including the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship and the GIJ Vocal Scholarship, ensure that progress continues beyond this weekend.
Tomorrow night, more than 6,500 people will gather at the James Morrison Pavilion for the gala concert, headlined by Tower of Power - an opportunity for students to see performance at the highest level, up close.
All of this happens in an environment that is, in itself, extraordinary.
Because none of this happens without the community here in Mount Gambier behind it.
In just seven days, the Big Top – the largest modular tent in the Southern Hemisphere – is constructed on this site.
More than 200 volunteers, alongside 19 community groups, deliver every part of the event, from staging and logistics to transport and hospitality.
And that contribution extends beyond the festival itself.
I was pleased to learn that last year, Generations in Jazz returned more than $100,000 directly to community groups - an investment that continues to strengthen the region.
This is what gives Generations in Jazz its strength – extraordinary opportunity for young musicians, supported by an equally extraordinary community.
As Generations in Jazz approaches its 40th year, it stands as a sustained example of education, creativity, and community working in concert over time.
I thank the current and successive Generations in Jazz boards for their leadership, and the volunteers whose work keeps this event running.
Whether it is managing venues, staffing the lost property tent, or supporting the countless moving parts across the site, your contribution is essential.
To the students, teachers, schools, and families – thank you for the effort, energy, and commitment that brings you here.
And to Mount Gambier and surrounding districts – thank you for your continued support of an event that is unmistakably yours.