Gladys Liu (Chisholm, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I would like to speak on a topic that is lighter, happier and relevant to all of us. On Sunday, like so many lucky mums around Australia, I received phone calls from my children wishing me a happy Mother's Day. I must admit that it was challenging not being able to see them in person due to the coronavirus. But whether it's over lunch or via a phone call it's always nice to get some acknowledgement of your hard work from your kids.

One of the greatest joys of motherhood is celebrating your children's achievements, so I hope you will indulge me. When I came to this country 35 years ago, I began my working life by waiting tables. Now my children—my son Derek and daughter Sally—have studied at Harvard and Princeton, respectively, and have begun successful corporate careers. Both of them represented Australia in chess, and Sally also happens to have represented Australia in ultimate Frisbee—my electorate of Chisholm is home to many fantastic sports clubs, including Box Hill Chess Club in Ashwood and Eastern Ultimate Frisbee in Blackburn North, if anyone is looking to play.

I want to extend my gratitude to all mums around Australia for all that they do, and my love to those who have found this year's Mother's Day especially tough in Victoria.