Gai Brodtmann (Canberra, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to pay tribute to the late Charles Lucre, a man much loved in the Canberra community for his generosity of spirit and many acts of kindness. For 37 years, Charles Lucre was a volunteer and dedicated provider of pastoral care services at the Canberra Hospital. The staff and patients were like his family. A long-time member of the congregation of St Andrews, just down here at Forrest, he worked tirelessly to offer care and friendship to patients of all beliefs and backgrounds, particularly those without family support. He offered a smile, a chat, a story and a bit of happiness and company to countless patients over the years.

In 2002 Charles was awarded the Order of Australia medal for services to the community, particularly through the provision of pastoral care services at the Canberra Hospital. Charles was a proud Canberra Hospital Auxiliary member. He was also keen to learn more about medical issues and was made an honorary member of the Infectious Diseases Unit and the only life member of the ACT Wound Management Association. Charles Lucre will be remembered as a gentle man who offered care and kindness to those in need. Early this month he was sent off in true Presbyterian style. His pallbearers were members of the Air Force, everyone was in tartan and his coffin was piped out to Amazing Grace. Vale, Charles Lucre.