Four young women from Cherbourg, in Queensland's South Burnett region, have been recognised at the State's Parliament House during an offical visit.
The students, all currently studying at university, were hosted in Brisbane by Nanango MP Deb Frecklington, the state's Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Integrity.
The visit was organised after Ms Frecklington and Local Government Minister Ann Leahy travelled to Cherbourg in September to meet with Mayor Bruce Simpson and the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council.
Youth leadership, education pathways and the achievements of local students were key parts of those discussions.
Ms Frecklington said she was moved by the young women's stories and wanted them to see Parliament firsthand.
"It was my pleasure to invite these four outstanding students to Queensland Parliament," she said.
"These students are a powerful reminder of the talent and potential within our regional communities. By pursuing higher education and stepping into leadership roles, they are inspiring others in Cherbourg to see what's possible."
The students — Katie Langton (Law), Jenakai Simpson (Communications), Sienna Murray (Creative Design) and Mia Sandow (Business and Management) — toured the parliamentary precinct, shared lunch with the Attorney-General, and watched proceedings from the public gallery.
Mayor Bruce Simpson, who accompanied them on the visit, said the group represented Cherbourg "with confidence and pride".
"They spoke about their degrees, their goals and their vision for our community's future," he said. "They made us incredibly proud."
The students also met Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, who spoke briefly with them about their studies and aspirations.
The Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council thanked Stanwell for providing chauffeured transport for the students to and from QUT, saying the company has played a key role in supporting education and career pathways for young people in the region.
Mayor Simpson said the visit highlighted what can happen when young people from remote and regional communities are given real opportunities.
"Their achievements show that when our young people are supported, they rise — and they inspire the next generation to follow," he said.
