The 2026 State Budget delivers significant investments to strengthen our health system, ensuring Queenslanders can access the care they need, when they need it.

Across Queensland, we`re investing in hospitals, ambulance services, frontline healthcare workers and critical infrastructure to support growing communities and improve patient outcomes.

Here in Cairns, we`re seeing a record $1 billion investment in health, including:
- Major upgrades at Cairns Hospital
- A new Queensland Ambulance Service (000) Operations Centre
- The Cairns Hospital Transit Lounge expansion, helping improve patient flow and care

These investments will help deliver better health services for Far North Queensland now and into the future.

To learn more about what the State Budget is delivering for our region, visit my website: https://bree4barronriver.com.au/2026/06/what-the-2026-state-budget-delivers-for-far-north-queensland/

Today was a truly special milestone, celebrating 50 years of Calanna Pharmacy.

For five decades, the Calanna family has been at the heart of the Cairns community, providing trusted healthcare, supporting local organisations, and giving back in ways that have touched the lives of generations of Far North Queensland families. Fifty years in business is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to their commitment to our region.

It was wonderful to see Matthew and Catherine continuing the legacy Mario built. They have carried forward not only the Calanna name, but the values of care, compassion and community service that have always defined the business.

Mario Calanna wasn`t just a mate. He was a mentor to me and one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. When Mario passed away in 2022, I was absolutely heartbroken. We spent countless hours talking politics, leadership, business, health, community and life. He challenged me, encouraged me, and was always generous with his wisdom, advice and support.

What made Mario so special was his commitment to servant leadership. He never led for recognition or personal gain. He led by serving others, lifting people up, supporting his community and helping those around him reach their full potential. Mario always put people first. His impact can still be seen across our community and in the lives of the many people he mentored and inspired, including mine.

I feel incredibly honoured to have been part of today`s celebrations. Congratulations to the entire Calanna family on 50 incredible years.

And to Mario, thank you for your friendship, guidance and unwavering support. Your legacy lives on every day through your family, your business and the community you loved so dearly.

Great to have the Small Business Minister in Cairns and meet with local businesses across Stratford.

This is one of my favourite areas, with so many great businesses, from Marsh Butchers, who just celebrated 100 years, to Palooka, which recently received funding through the Secure Communities Partnership Program, to the Stratford General Store, owned by local Stratty legend Craig, and Wolf Café, home to the famous Brie James baguette.

Thank you to everyone who came and said g`day, and to everyone who supports these and the many other amazing local businesses in our area.

@steveminnikinmp
@marsh_butcheries
@palooka.cairns
@stratford_general
@wolfcaf