David Batt (Hinkler, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Today my community farewells a beloved personality. John Greenhalgh, Bundaberg born and bred, passed away on August 14. He coined the phrase, 'the Paris end of Bourbong', a reference to the eastern end of the city of Bundaberg's main street. It's this part of the CBD where his family business, the famous Avenell Brothers, proudly operates.

John lived a full and vibrant life. He was always exceptionally dressed, renowned for those colourful bow ties. He was the heart and soul of Bundaberg's oldest gift and homewares store. More than a shop, the business delivers an iconic experience, meticulously filled to the brim with fine gifts, and offering a first-class service. Avenell's of Bundaberg was opened in 1898 by Frederick William Avenell, John's great-grandfather. The first store was established diagonally opposite its current site. John's funeral was held this morning in Bundaberg, and while I couldn't be there, it's an honour to pay tribute to him here in parliament today.

Melanice Jacobsen is the owner of a neighbouring store, Cha Cha Chocolate. She summed up John's passing by saying he will be deeply missed and that our community will never be the same, and neither will our hearts. I pass on my condolences to the family, friends and customers who are mourning John's passing today. May the Avenell Brothers' traditions live on, and so too John 's legacy. He will be dearly missed and always remembered. John was the Paris end of Bundaberg. He was 70.

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