Jason Falinski (Mackellar, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It is an honour to stand here today and offer my congratulations to those who have given tireless service to their community and the nation. As a local member, I am continually astonished at the width and breadth of those in our community quietly working to improve the lives of others. The 2017 Queen's Birthday Honours List recognises the service of five Mackellar residents.

Mr Christopher Cuffe from Terrey Hills was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for his distinguished service to the community as an advocate for philanthropy, as a supporter of improved financial efficiencies in charitable organisations and to the funds management industry. As founder and chairman of Australian Philanthropic Services, Chris has sought to use his 25 years of experience in building successful wealth management practices to inspire and support more individuals and families to engage in philanthropy.

Mr Barry Finch of Frenchs Forest received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the community through social welfare groups, including the St Vincent de Paul Society, where he serves as president of the Broken Bay Central Council. Barry has been a member of the society for 32 years and is also the Forestville Conference president and the president of the No Interest Loan Scheme, Northern Sydney.

Mr Allan McCormac, who lives in Newport, was also awarded an OAM for service to the community, particularly to road safety. Alan is the national coordinator of the Driver Reviver program and has been involved with the program since 1989. Over the years of his involvement, the road toll has dramatically declined—in no small part because of the program's excellent work around Australia to reduce fatigue related crashes on our roads. Allan is also a recipient of the Melvin Jones award, which is the highest award the Lions Club International can bestow upon a person.

Mr Peter Wachtel from Palm Beach, who has served the community through ski patrolling for over 40 years, was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia. Peter has been a member of the Perisher Ski Patrol, the Volunteer Rescue Association ski patrol squad and the Australian Ski Patrol Association, serving in various positions throughout his many years of service. He has been an examiner and trainer in ski patrolling and first aid for many years and has contributed much to the safety of outdoor snow sports.

Francis Wong of Belrose was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the Chinese community of Sydney. Francis is the honourable life president of the Chung Shan Society of Australia, former president of the Zhung Shan Business Association and former secretary of the Kuan Yin Temple Foundation. He has also given service to the Lions Club, the Chinese Youth League of Australia and Australia Day Chinese community commemorations.