Gordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

As we commence the 48th Parliament of Australia, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the people of Robertson. Your trust and support mean everything to me. Representing our community in the federal parliament is one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I will continue to serve with dedication, humility and an unwavering fairness for progress for all. It was an honour and a privilege to have been the member for Robertson in the 47th Parliament, and I now look forward to continuing my work building a better future for my community and for our region, the Central Coast.

Campaigns are particularly challenging, and having a supportive team is crucial for any member of parliament running for election or re-election. There are some exceptional people that must be mentioned here tonight. To my beautiful wife, Shaylee: what a vision! Words cannot express my love for you in this moment. Public life is not something that one does alone, with its demands, pressures and countless absences. You have endured the burdens of this life with quiet grace, resilience and extraordinary patience. Your support has been the steady foundation beneath every step I have taken, and your sacrifice, often unseen by many, has made it possible for me to serve the people of the Central Coast and of Australia. Thank you for being by my side every step of this journey.

To my incredible parents, Bryan and Leanne: in my first speech to parliament, I said that there has never been a time in my life when you have not been there for me. It was true then and is true now. Your love and support have been a quiet constant behind every moment of my public life. You both instilled the values of service, humility and hard work long before I ever imagined a role in parliament. Through the pressures of being the member for Robertson—the long hours, the difficult decisions and the moments of doubt—you have both been my strength to move forward. I know your belief in me has never wavered, and your quiet and sometimes not-so-quiet pride has given me strength. I would not be who I am or have done what I have done without the life that you built for me. I love you both.

To my sister, Grace—sorry, Dr Grace Reid: as any big brother knows, having a little sister means never getting too full of yourself, because she'll be the first to bring you back down to Earth. Throughout my time in public life, while I've been giving speeches and sitting in parliament, she's been there with her quick wit and that unique sibling ability to keep me grounded. But, behind the jest, is a heart full of loyalty, love and unwavering support. She has been one of my biggest cheerleaders, and I couldn't have done this without her strength, humour and the occasional reality check only a little sister can deliver.

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