House debates

Thursday, 10 November 2016

Statements by Members

Sutcliffe, Ms Audrey Jean

1:47 pm

Photo of Tim WilsonTim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Today we honour Goldstein resident and centenarian, Audrey Jean Sutcliffe. Known by her second name, Jean was one of Goldstein's modest souls, despite her lifetime of service. During the Second World War, Jean served as a lieutenant, as a theatre nurse, at a clearing station in Finschhafen, Papua New Guinea. Like so many others, Jean saw some truly terrible things, for much of the fighting around Finschhafen was done in the jungle—hand to hand and often with bayonets.

On coming home, she learned that the Japanese had taken the life of her fiance, and for many years she wore her engagement ring on a chain around her neck. She was loved by her community. She recently held her 100th birthday at the Beaumaris Bowls Club, with a large contingent of friends and family who turned up to celebrate with her. I was very privileged to be there on that day and to celebrate with her family and friends and community members.

I was particularly honoured to be able to present to Jean her congratulatory message from the Queen of Australia. It is fitting that, on the last parliamentary sitting day before Remembrance Day, we pay recognition to Jean and her life. She is gone from us, but her life and service to our community and country will never be forgotten, and we miss her already.