KATTER’S Australian Party MP Bob Katter hosted the Australian Prime Minister for one of the country’s most iconic and largest events at Mount Isa, while recognising the region’s economic value towards the nation.

Mr Katter and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the 2023 Mount Isa Rodeo, which also celebrated the mining city’s 100th birthday.

Prior to the show, the veteran MPs toured the city on Friday afternoon, visiting local businesses including John Doyle’s Three Sons Fitness centre, Geoff and Simone Marsh’s SportsPower, before walking to The Buffs Club for an awards presentation.

Five North West Queensland icons received a Good Australian Award, instituted by Mr Katter, and on Friday, awarded by the Prime Minister.

The recipients included Fred Brophy, Bob Holder, Scott Prince, Farther Mick and the late Mayor of Doomadgee, Jason Ned. (Full bios on each recipient attached).

Mr Katter later accompanied the Prime Minster at the Mount Isa Rodeo arena for the event’s opening ceremony.

The North Queensland MP said he was delighted to host dear friend Mr Albanese for a weekend of celebrations, but just as importantly, to discuss the region’s future.

“Anthony understands the North West, he’s visited Hughenden, he gave us the funding for the Hann Hwy and he’s given us the CopperString transmission line,” Mr Katter said.

“The Hann Hwy cuts off nearly 2000km of transport from the giant the food bowl of Australia (North Queensland), that’s a lot of costs and CO2 avoided.

“And CopperString will power a series of new mines, in a region rich with new-age metals required for electric vehicles and batteries, while providing reliable power to the North West communities.

“But water is next, and it starts with the Hughenden Irrigation Project. For a region already contributing billions to our nation with its minerals, we deserve water infrastructure to grow our towns and continue generating wealth.”

Mr Katter and Mr Albanese on Saturday morning attended a Mount Isa Mines tour, where Mr Katter said the Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of mining to achieve the government’s own goals, including the move to electric vehicles.

Mr Katter said the Prime Minister also stated he would be speaking with the housing minister to incentivise residential take-up in the North West, to mitigate the negative impacts of the FIFO lifestyle.