House debates

Monday, 17 August 2009

Statements by Members

Cowan Electorate: West Australian Assistance Dogs Inc.

6:50 pm

Photo of Luke SimpkinsLuke Simpkins (Cowan, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Recently at Kingsway shopping centre, not far from my office, I attended a demonstration by the West Australian Assistance Dogs, an incorporated body. In that demonstration they showed us how they are recruiting and training dogs to help people with disabilities—basic functions which nevertheless improve the quality of life for people with disabilities such as retrieving keys, answering phones and even taking washing out of washing machines. It was a very impressive demonstration. I would like to say what an excellent organisation they are. I thank the leadership of WA Assistance Dogs for what they do. Gwen Dasborough is the president, Mike Burridge is the treasurer, Lesley Burridge is the mobility services trainer, Maja Pitts is the vice-president, Kendall Pickering is on the committee, Dot Blee is the secretary, Carolyn Read is the trainer and Dave Curr is on puppy roster. The dogs who were there that day and did an excellent job were Flossy, Toby, Leroy, Savannah and Kaelen.