House debates

Monday, 17 October 2016

Statements by Members

Bennelong Electorate: Chinese Language School anniversary

4:30 pm

Photo of John AlexanderJohn Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I am delighted to request the House join me in congratulating the Australian Chinese Cultural Association of New South Wales Chinese Language School on their 40th anniversary. Bennelong is very fortunate to be enriched with cultures from around the globe. The Chinese community, in particular, have come to Eastwood and made a permanent home, combining the great benefits of our cultures. This community has had great success in finding a balance between integrating into the Australian way of life and retaining important aspects of Chinese cultures and fusing the two into a unique, strong, local identity.

As one of the most multicultural electorates in the country, we celebrate Bennelong's cultural diversity and identity in many ways. However, to have such a stalwart community institution reach their 40th anniversary and continue to enrich our area through social and educational initiatives is truly a reason to be proud. Local organisations like the Australian Chinese Cultural Association are essential in sustaining our appreciation of cultural heritage.

I applaud the association on the far-sighted work they did 40 years ago to set up the language school and I congratulate them on keeping it running to such a high standard ever since. Congratulations to the principal, Mr Phil Xu, and everyone who has been involved in this wonderful local organisation over the past 40 years. I thank the Australian Chinese Cultural Association once again for their contribution to our local community and wish them all the best for many years to come.