Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I certainly endorse the comments of the member for Paterson. I hope that he joins me in my concerted efforts to get relevant government ministers to respond to those serious questions that have been put before the House. I look forward to that support.

Today, I would like to acknowledge the Sport Achievement Awards that I hosted in my electorate of Newcastle at the Nobbys Surf Life Saving Club just last week. These awards recognised outstanding athletic performance by teams or individuals as well as the tremendous contributions made by volunteers, managers and coaches to our local teams and clubs. Some of the award recipients include: the coach of the Hunter Hurricanes men's water polo team, Brett Arnold, for coaching this team to win the bronze medal in the national league; Peter Storey, the co-founder of the now annual charity event 'Run with a Story', who was presented with an award for his dedication both to running and to the Newcastle community; the Shortland United Junior Football Club under 12s team, which received an award for winning the grand final in its first year of graded competition; and the Stockton Junior Rugby League under 16s team along with the Diggers at Newcastle City netball club, both teams who excelled in their respective sports. Whilst playing sport keeps you physically and mentally fit, it also helps bring communities together. The Sport Achievement Award is due recognition of the talent and dedication of all involved.