Ross Vasta (Bonner, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to honour and celebrate the life of my father, Angelo Vasta. On Wednesday 29 September Dad passed away. At 80 years of age, he'd lived a full life dedicated both to his career and to his family. He was the son of a Sicilian migrant who came to the North Queensland cane fields in 1922 in the hope of a better future for his family.

Growing up, Dad was always there for me and moulded me into the man I am today. He was the father to six children and taught us all the value of service to the public, rather than service to oneself. He illustrated this perfectly during his distinguished legal career. Dad's unwavering passion to keep giving back to the community didn't stop once he left the Supreme Court bench. He threw himself into doing work for the less privileged, especially for the Aboriginal Legal Service, where he was a powerful advocate for Indigenous Australians. My siblings and I were fortunate to have had Dad around as much as we did, and for that I am truly grateful.

On behalf of my family I want to acknowledge and thank the community in my electorate of Bonner for the many kind words relayed through text messages, emails, cards or flowers. My family has been overwhelmed by the very kind expressions of sympathy on Dad's passing. Rest in peace, Dad.

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

On behalf of all of us here, warm condolences to you and your family.