Lucy Wicks (Robertson, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The 2014 National Disability Awards were presented last night at a gala event hosted by the Assistant Minister for Social Services, Mitch Fifield, at the Great Hall here in Parliament House. It was a terrific opportunity to honour the work that is being done for people with disability every day—the sort of work that sometimes does not get the recognition it deserves.

One of the most inspiring stories told last night was the work of Saronbell, a business based in North Gosford in my electorate on the New South Wales Central Coast. Last night Saronbell was awarded joint winner in the category of improving employment opportunities—a fantastic achievement. Run by an outstanding business couple, Ron and Sandra Mussalli, Saronbell has, since 2010, employed over 200 people with disability at McDonald's restaurants across the coast. Its ongoing relationship with Job Centre Australia has now made it the largest employer of people with disability on the coast.

I called Ron this morning to pass on my warmest congratulations to him, Sandra and the team, because they set a great example of what can be achieved when dedicated and passionate organisations in our local communities work towards a brighter future for people with disabilities.

With the International Day of People with Disability being held next Wednesday, the awards are indeed well-timed. So well done to Saronbell and the other nine winners from last night for the inspiring work you do in helping people with disability and creating a better future, more hope and opportunity.