On Thursday 20 May, members of the QAHS Student Executive were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to attend Queensland Parliament House at the invitation of Southport State Member, Robert Molhoek MP. The students arrived at Parliament House - a historic building at the centre of Brisbane's beautiful CBD - and were welcomed by staff. While waiting to commence the tour of Parliament House, students were able to explore the halls of Parliament and marvel in the many incredible displays. Of particular note, the G20 summit signature booklet from the 2014 congregation held in Brisbane, containing the signatures of international leaders, the likes of Angela Merkel, Xi Jung Ping, Vladimir Putin and Barrack Obama. Students were then taken on a guided tour of the building, viewing the chamber of the Legislative Council (abolished in 1922), the members library and the Legislative Assembly.
After a brief scare from the fire alarm, the leaders then proceeded to the picturesque rooftop for a barbeque dinner overlooking the Brisbane river. QAHS leaders had the opportunity to hear from Mr Molhoek about his advice to young people, and the rules he had for his own children. Amongst this advice: try your best always, engage in team activities, play an instrument and work for what you seek to gain or achieve. We heard stories of Rob's passion for our system of democracy, of his own life and of his children's exciting adventures and careers. The evening was an excellent experience for all of our Student Executive, and we are lucky to have had such a rare opportunity to experience the people's house from the inside.
Samuel Brown
Year 10 Student