Meryl Swanson (Paterson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today, following Australia Day, to acknowledge and honour Australians whose service, integrity and commitment reflect the very best of our nation. Australia Day honours are not about status or ceremony alone; they are about recognising lives of service, often quiet, often difficult and often carried out without expectation of recognition. They remind us that Australia is strengthened every day by people who step forward for others, who stand up for justice and who dedicate themselves to their communities. Today I'm proud to place on the parliamentary record the extraordinary contributions of several Australians from Paterson who were recognised in this year's Australia Day honours list.

Firstly, I wish to acknowledge Robert 'Bob' O'Toole OAM, from Raworth. Bob's recognition, with the Order of Australia Medal, is deeply significant. It honours decades of unwavering advocacy on behalf of survivors of institutional sexual abuse—advocacy that required courage, resilience and an unshakeable belief in justice. As the founder of the Clergy Abused Network, Bob played a pivotal role in supporting survivors to find their voice and in shining a light on the wrongdoing that had been ignored for far too long. His efforts were instrumental in the calls that ultimately led to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. It was announced under Prime Minister Gillard, and it is something that I take deep pride in as a member of the Labor Party—a turning point in our nation's history.

Bob's work was never abstract or distant. He walked alongside survivors through some of the most challenging moments of their lives—through disclosure, through the royal commission process and well beyond. His advocacy was grounded in compassion, respect and an unwavering commitment to dignity. I acknowledge the words of Kathleen Marriott, who nominated Bob for this honour and who has worked closely with him for many years. She describes Bob as a guiding force—someone who provided not only vital knowledge and connections but genuine care. She notes that this recognition, four years after the nomination, feels like a victory not just for Bob but for the entire survivor community. Bob O'Toole's OAM is a powerful acknowledgement of work that has changed lives and helped change our country for the better.

I also honour Bruce Townsend OAM, from Raymond Terrace—a man whose name is synonymous with service in our local community. Bruce has dedicated many years to supporting others through his involvement with the Raymond Terrace Lions Club, St Vincent de Paul, HealthOne, Raymond Terrace Community Preschool and St Brigid's Church. His contributions span generations and reflect a lifetime of generosity. Many in the community will also fondly remember Bruce as the proprietor of Townsend Pharmacy, where he served local families with care, professionalism and kindness. For Bruce, service was not limited to volunteer roles; it was embedded in everyday interactions and genuine human connection—his life's work, nonetheless. The Raymond Terrace Lions Club expressed how proud they are to call Bruce one of their own, and that pride is shared widely across our towns and electorate. His OAM recognises a life devoted to community wellbeing and quiet leadership.

Andrew Harris AM has been recognised for exceptional service to the Royal Australian Air Force, particularly through his leadership in the enhancement and employment of air combat capabilities, encompassing platforms, people and procedures. Thank you for your service, Andrew.

Nigel Ward CSM has been recognised for his meritorious devotion to duty in providing outstanding support to Army personnel, units, formations and commands through his role as the pay and administrative liaison officer at the centre in New South Wales.

Their honours remind us of the extraordinary contribution made by members of our Defence Force and veterans whose service, often under immense pressure and sacrifice, helps keep our nation safe. Together, these Australia Day honours recipients remind us that service takes many forms: advocacy, community leadership, compassion, duty to country. Each matters. Each strengthens our national fabric. Thank you.

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