House debates

Tuesday, 13 May 2014

Statements by Members

Western Australia Senate Election

1:31 pm

Photo of Ken WyattKen Wyatt (Hasluck, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

A little over five weeks ago Western Australians went back to the polls for the second time in the re-run of the Senate election. Firstly, thank you to all volunteers who manned booths across Hasluck. I am so proud of the effort and enthusiasm displayed by all of our supporters. You are tremendous.

I want to pay tribute to and congratulate the woman who is deemed to be the unluckiest person in politics prior to the election. Senator elect Linda Reynolds is an outstanding local Hasluck woman who was again re-elected as the third Liberal senator for Western Australia. Linda was elected in September 2013 in the federal election and then had to go back to the polls after the infamous loss of ballot papers by the AEC. What people in this House may not know is that Linda lives in my electorate of Hasluck, went to school at St Brigid's College in Lesmurdie and grew up in the hills area of Hasluck.

Linda has become a good friend over the past couple of years and she will make a fine senator. Her contribution to the Senate will be of great benefit to the people of Western Australia, who have gained an effective and enthusiastic advocate for their interests and needs. In particular, her contribution to Australia in the Defence Force matches her drive and commitment to the things that she aspires to. Congratulations, Linda. I look forward to welcoming you to the parliament in July.