Bruce Billson (Dunkley, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Small Business, Competition Policy and Consumer Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

It came as a bit of a shock. I thank the member for Kooyong for pointing out my obvious deficiencies in this area.

Mr Frydenberg interjecting—

No, you are very kind not to point those out! It was a wonderful discussion. Dame Elisabeth said, 'Bruce, what do you know about orchids?' I said, 'Dame Elisabeth, what I know about orchids you could write in crayon on the back of a stamp.' She said, 'Perfect; you will enjoy much in learning about orchids.' I said, 'I do have the odd orchid or two.' She said, 'I would be really grateful if you would relieve me of the responsibility of being patron of the Mornington Peninsula Orchid Society.' I said, 'Obviously the criteria has been relaxed significantly, to go from your good self to me, but if I can help out I would be happy to.' I learnt so much about orchids. I did my research. I was happy to present prizes at the annual show.

Mr Frydenberg interjecting—

Not colour but hues, the various varieties within the genus and what was discovered in any given year. I remember vividly her encouragement to be the patron and to present the prizes at the annual show. I brought along my own creation one year—that was my then newly-born daughter, who gained a sash as best of breed at the show. She was not quite an orchid variety but she carried the gene pool of my sweetheart, Kate.

They were some of the wonderful memories that I have of a remarkable woman. Her extended family I have, through public service, been pleased to count as acquaintances over many years. Our thoughts will continue to be with Dame Elisabeth and with her extended and extensive family. When I was shown some of the family photographs of the Christmas gathering I was not sure it was not the crowd at the Dolphins footy finals, but, no, it was the children and the cousins. It was quite a turnout but a time of great joy for Dame Elisabeth.

She has an extraordinary network of beneficiaries from a life of selfless service and generous community engagement. The support of her family, her personal staff and a network of confidants has enabled Dame Elisabeth to achieve so much and to touch the lives of so many. I miss her. I miss her insights and that sparkle in her eye that I will always remember. Her passing will leave a massive hole in our local community, as a friend and as a neighbour, as a contributor and as a remarkable individual who lived as an enduring example of a long and purposeful life splendidly lived. The community that I represent in the greater Frankston-Dunkley area will forever remember Dame Elisabeth for her caring nature, her warmth, her kindness, her generosity, her integrity. We were thrilled that she was a neighbour and a friend—an inspiration. We have been blessed that she has been part of our community.

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