John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to applaud the great work of the Australian Asian Association of Bennelong. Known as the AAAB, the association represents the cultural diversity of Bennelong and is the heart of the community, creating harmony and understanding in all parts of the electorate and across all ethnic and community groups.

This coming Saturday evening, I will be presenting the inaugural AAAB Multicultural Citizen of the Year Award to a person who demonstrates by their actions consistency with the objectives of the association: the promotion of multiculturalism, cultural harmony, tolerance, understanding and education, which build relationships across the community.

President Hugh Lee's and past president Brad Chan's commitment to maintaining strong relationships is well known in Bennelong and deserves formal recognition in this place. The AAAB run major festivals in Bennelong, including the Lunar New Year and upcoming Moon Festival celebrations. The association also communicates the views of local residents through their work with many local citizens clubs and business groups. The Eastwood Senior Citizens Club is one such organisation. It performs great work and will be celebrating its 20th anniversary later this year.

I thank the Australian Asian Association of Bennelong, their committee and their members, who work tirelessly and help to make Bennelong such a great place to work and live. I look forward to joining you at Saturday night's celebration.