House debates

Monday, 26 September 2022

Statements by Members

Banks Electorate: St Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church, Banks Electorate: St George Academy of Performing Arts

4:26 pm

Photo of David ColemanDavid Coleman (Banks, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

St Luke's Catholic church in Revesby is an absolute linchpin in the Banks community, and it was great to visit Father Dariusz Basiaga, the new priest, recently. St Luke's, which has been around for a very long time—more than 70 years—has an incredibly important role. People come from all around the area to be a part of the congregation and to participate in the many good community activities that St Luke's is involved in. I want to thank Father Basiaga for the time that he took on the day and also Pauline Sahyoun, the parish secretary; Ellina Nandan, the youth coordinator; and everyone who is involved in making St Luke's the remarkably important institution that it is in our community.

The St George Academy of Performing Arts teaches dance at the very highest level. The academy offers ballet, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical dance and adult fitness classes. It's been doing so for a very long time. Students in the academy work with the Royal Academy of Dance examiners and teachers, demonstrating the very high level of dance that happens down at the St George Academy of Performing Arts. I want to thank Lucy Lu, the owner, who does a fantastic job. It was great recently to meet Olivia Gao, who has volunteered there for many years and gives a great deal back to our community and helps our young people learn the art of dance.