The take-home message was that the post-Cold War era is over, and that relationships with other like-minded countries are becoming increasingly important.

Thank you to Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, and Professor Don Chalmers for hosting this year’s lecture.

We share a unique bond, which continues to go from strength to strength. I look forward to telling stories, to building bridges and to bringing people together for many more years to come.

I was also able to acknowledge the contributions made by countless other people, whose tireless efforts have made it all possible.

Ever since I first visited Japan, it’s been my enormous privilege to do whatever I can to promote mutual understanding and to further the relationship with Tasmania.

Australian Red Cross was there, helping local communities to get ready for emergencies through the Get EmergencyRedi Tasmania project.

Thank you to the South Hobart Sustainable Community for organising a very successful event.

However, it was also inspiring to learn of the efforts being made by companies such as Recycle Smart to increase the amount of waste that is recycled.

The City of Hobart is undertaking a one-year soft plastics collection trial, with a collection point at the McRobies Gully Waste Management Centre.

Recording now available... www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc3S...

During the coming weeks, I look forward to getting out there and meeting as many of you as I can. I want to hear what you want the Tasmanian Parliament to do for you.

If elected, I will work openly and constructively with all members of the parliament to tackle the many challenges that Tasmania faces – including education, healthcare, housing and transport.