Karen McNamara (Dobell, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to pay tribute and bid farewell to a remarkable lady, Margaret Elizabeth Talarico, fondly known as Betty, who passed away on 6 March 2014. Betty was a respected member of the Central Coast community. Betty was a fighter who stood firm in her belief in Queen and country, and led the charge on many local community causes, earning her the reputation as 'Betty Blockbuster'—an appropriate name given Betty's dedication to the community.

Betty was a fiercely proud Australian, dedicating her time and energy to family, friends, political causes as well as numerous Central Coast community and environmental groups. Betty loved Bateau Bay and its beaches and fought to protect the local environment through volunteer work with the Bateau Bay Bushrangers and Save Our Water.

I came to know Betty through our association with the Liberal Party. Those within the party will remember Betty for her warm and friendly smile. Betty was a strong advocate for Australians for Constitutional Monarchy, No Republic and Save Our Flag. As a supporter of Dying With Dignity, Betty passed with dignity on her terms.

Betty was immensely proud of her family and her life. She asked us not to cry but to smile, not to mourn her passing but to remember and celebrate the life she had lived. I offer my sincere condolences to Betty's family, who can be proud of her legacy and dedication to our community.