John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) | Link to this | Hansard source

It's an honour to speak today about some of the wonderful people from the electorate of Bennelong. I've always been so proud of the vibrant sense of community within Bennelong and the generous and supportive locals who contribute to it. As part of the Australia Day 2022 honours, a number of Bennelong locals were deservingly recognised with awards, and I'm proud to be able to share the achievements of some of them with you now.

Firstly, congratulations to Sally Ruston, from Epping, who was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia for her significant service to primary education and to professional associations. In conjunction with her contribution to teaching she has been involved with the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia, the Association of Independent Schools, the Independent Schools Teacher Accreditation Authority and the Australian Primary Principals Association. Before receiving the Member of the Order of Australia last month, Sally had already received a number of other awards and forms of recognition, including an honorary fellowship of the Teachers Guild of New South Wales, in 2021, and Australian Primary Principal of the Year (Non-Government) at the Educator's Australian Education Awards in 2019.

The next Bennelong local I would like to speak about is Karen Waud, from West Ryde, who received the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to sport as an administrator and player. Over many years Karen has provided her service and support to a number of sporting associations, such as West Ryde Rovers sports and social clubs, North West Sydney Football and the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association, ERNA. I've had the pleasure of attending many ERNA events and match days. ERNA is a truly great local sporting association, with thousands of members and supporters, which is well managed by Karen, who is the current president. Karen's service to young sportspeople, especially young girls and women, is commendable.

Finally, I offer congratulations to Mervyn Whiting, from Marsfield, on his Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to veterans and their families, and to the community. Over the years, Mervyn has been involved with a number of organisations, including the Returned and Services League of Australia, Freemasons NSW & ACT, the Australian Legion of Ex-Servicemen and Women, and Scouts NSW. Mervyn has also served the community through his professional life as a major in the Australian Intelligence Corps, a soldier with the Royal Australian Infantry Corps, a telephone counsellor on Lifeline, an Australian Federal Police officer and a NSW Ambulance officer. Mervyn, you are a champion!

Again, congratulations, Sally, Karen and Mervyn, on your wonderful achievements. I am so proud of your efforts. You make Bennelong the best electorate in Australia. (Time expired)