Peta Murphy (Dunkley, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today, on the last day of parliament for the year, I want to thank my community for everything you've done to get us through 2021, another tough year in so many different ways. To our early childhood educators, our teachers and support staff; to our nurses, doctors, social workers and counsellors; to our cleaners, and our disability, aged and family carers; to our retail and hospitality workers; to our police, ambos and firies; to the manufacturing and construction businesses and workers; to the small businesses who had to pivot online, who kept our economy going; to the sporting clubs and associations—some didn't get to play many matches, it has to be said—who stepped up and beyond to provide support and care to your players, coaches and members; to parents, grandparents and students navigating home learning for so much of the year; to our volunteers at food banks at support services; to our charities; to neighbours who cared for each other; and to families who cared for people who are on their own: you have all shown why we are stronger together. You have all shown why our community is so magnificent.

I am indescribably proud to have represented all of you for the last 2½ years, and I hope to do so for many years to come. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and I look forward to seeing you out on the wonderful Frankston Beach and in our parks as we enjoy a summer coming out of a year that was so hard, but we did it. Congratulations.