As the CEO of an extremely remote Queensland council with a population base of less than 500, it can be difficult to garner the attention of other senior leaders in government and private enterprise.

However, Ms Holgate responded directly to me within hours over weekends on two issues of vital importance to Council and our community.

They were the numbering of rural properties to assist emergency services, and partnering on rural lending to allow Burke Shire residents to take a big step towards the home ownership other Australians take for granted.

Because of her intervention and leadership, I was connected the next day with the people in her organisation who could help Council effect change.

It is authentic, outcome-driven leadership like this that too often gets overlooked in the waves of hyperbole and hysteria a scandal seem to trigger.

I have found Ms Holgate to be a passionate leader committed to playing a personal role in ensuring the voices of remote communities are heard above the roar of political and media agendas.

Perhaps other senior leaders in both the public and private sectors could follow her example for the betterment of our country's remotest areas, rather than simply adding their voice to the roar.

Clare Keenan

Chief Executive Officer

Burke Shire Council

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month each year, we pause to remember the service and sacrifice of our fallen men and women who gave their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Remembrance Day is one of the most significant days of our year and for more than 100 years we have paused in silent reflection of the sacrifice of our service personnel. It is a demonstration that we will not forget them.

Originally known as Armistice Day, this solemn day marks the day the guns fell silent on the Western Front during the First World War. Unknown to people at that time, this would not be the last war Australia would see.

Just 20 years later Australia was at war again, in the largest global conflict of the 20th century - the Second World War which would see some 39,000 Australians die.

It was after the Second World War ended that 11 November became known as Remembrance Day.

This Remembrance Day I encourage all Australians to commemorate our fallen by sharing one minute's silence in memory of the more than 102,000 Australian men and women who have died in over a century of service in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

I also encourage all Australians to wear a red poppy in remembrance of our fallen, and, if you are a member of our veteran community, to wear the Veteran Lapel Pin or Reservist Lapel Pin, provided as part of the Australian Defence Veterans' Covenant, to help the community readily identify and acknowledge your service to our nation.

This time can be a very emotional one for veterans and their families. If you are a veteran or a family member who is struggling or in need of additional support during this time, I encourage you to call Open Arms 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit OpenArms.gov.au to find more about services available.

Lest we forget.

Darren Chester

Minister for Veterans' Affairs

Minister for Defence Personnel