Kevin Hogan (Page, National Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House) Share this | Hansard source

I'd like to rise to acknowledge a tragedy that recently happened in my community. On 5 May, Marine Rescue volunteers from Ballina answered a call to assist a boat in distress. Six volunteers launched into dangerous conditions. Tragically, the rescue vessel capsized, and Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch made the ultimate sacrifice. We often speak in this place about courage, service and community spirit. Bill and Frank showed all three. They were volunteers who quietly dedicated their time, skill and compassion to protecting others—men who loved serving their community and never hesitated when help was needed. Their loss has deeply affected the Marine Rescue family and our wider community. I extend my condolences to Bill's wife, Kerry; Frank's wife, Janet; and their extended families. Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch: rest in peace.

I'd also like to acknowledge Sam Darke, born in South Grafton in 1933. Sam loved his town, he loved a yarn, and, if you ever saw an old 'Bullnose' Morris, you knew exactly who it was. The car was his pride and joy. He also helped start the Grafton vintage car club so others could share the passion as well. As a young man in the Royal Australian Air Force, he was sent out to Emu Field during Operation Totem in 1953. What that involved was Sam transporting scientists into the desert for Australia's first nuclear test, and he held that story in silence for 70 years. Sam is thought to have been the last person alive that stood within five kilometres of the detonation. He said all this was carried out with the utmost secrecy. Sam married his wife, Betty, in 1956 and raised Dennis, Donnie and Carol. Rest in peace, Sam, and thank you for your service.

I'd also like to acknowledge and congratulate John and Fay Hooper, and Fay's brother Alan Child, on their retirement after 30 remarkable years of running the Coutts Crossing General Store. For generations, the store has been the heart of the community. Since taking over, John, Fay and Alan have been remembered for their generosity, having donated to countless charities and community groups. Stores like this—and the help they gave in feeding the community through fires and floods and in times of distress—are legendary for how generous they were. Their impact will be felt for many years—so thank you John, Fay, daughter Kylie and granddaughter Matilda; and Alan, children Tim and Ashley and grandchildren Tate, Joslyn and Rylee. Congratulations on all that you've contributed, and I wish you all the very best for a happy and well-earned retirement.

See this speech in context