Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today with a very heavy heart to mark the passing of Ljupco Jonceski, who was known to many of us in this place as Luch. For more than four decades, Luch dedicated his working life to service in the Australian parliament. His contribution may not always have been visible to the public, but his presence and work strengthened the way this place functioned every single day.

I was fortunate to share a very special bond with Luch—one that was deepened by my role as chair of the parliamentary friendship group for the Republic of North Macedonia. Luch was incredibly proud of his Macedonian heritage and he shared that pride very generously with me. He loved teaching me Macedonian words. Every morning, he would say good morning to me and how are you, and would speak with such great affection about his culture, his religion, his community and also his family.

When I was first elected, everything felt new and everything was overwhelming. I felt nervous in the House sometimes, but somehow Luch always knew. He would quietly bring me a glass of water. He knew exactly how I liked my glass of water—with no ice—and he would say, 'Ms Fernando, pretend it's vodka,' just to make me laugh and settle my nerves. It was such a small gesture, but it meant so much to me. Those little moments of kindness are what I will always remember. Walking through these halls now, the House feels a little bit different without him. He was a devoted husband, colleague and friend.

Luch, when I do go back to your home country, I will always remember everything that you've said and everything that we have shared over the last few years. It will always be a part of me. Thank you for everything. You are deeply, deeply missed.

I also extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Mary, his kids, his family and his friends, and especially to the Macedonian community. His presence is deeply, deeply missed throughout Parliament House. We love you, Luch. I am missing you so much; every question time or 90-second debate, I miss you. Vale Luch.

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