Emma McBride (Dobell, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health) Share this | Hansard source

There are many people in the electorate I represent who make the coast a special place, but today I want to recognise a couple of standouts, locals who have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday honours list this year. First, I'd like to recognise my friend Bob Wilson, who has received an Order of Australia Medal for his service to local veterans. Bob is a member, and the longstanding president, of the Toukley RSL sub-branch. During his many years of service, he has helped and supported countless veterans, especially with his work in securing funding to upgrade the local cenotaph. His wife, Narelle, also makes a mean brownie.

Next is Peter Rubin. Peter has also received an Order of Australia Medal for his outstanding work with local organisations. Peter has worked tirelessly for Rotary clubs on the coast for over 30 years, donating his own time and equipment to nearly every club event. I first worked with Peter on the Wyong Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2008.

Third is Karen Jones, who has been awarded the Public Service Medal for her work in education. Karen has changed the lives of so many students in her 30 years of teaching, particularly through her work with special needs and Aboriginal education programs. She was also the first Aboriginal woman to be elected to a senior directors role in the Department of Education.

Finally, Anthony Younglove has received the Emergency Services Medal, a well-deserved honour for someone who has dedicated his life to making our community a safer place.

I am proud to be a part of a community that's home to such dedicated and hardworking people as Bob, Peter, Karen and Anthony, and I'm glad to be honouring their efforts today.

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