Nola Marino (Forrest, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Education) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

As we head into summer I want to acknowledge the emergency services groups that are most likely to be called on over our summer months. I acknowledge the emergency services volunteers in particular and those who are likely to have a very busy summer ahead—and I think all in this place would agree.

The volunteer bushfire and emergency services brigades are likely to face a really challenging summer ahead. They put countless hours into this role. And there are the marine rescue people, the fabulous St John Ambulance volunteers and our surf lifesaving clubs, who work so hard over summer to reduce coastal drownings. They are very involved in safety and rescues right around the coast. They spend countless hours on patrol to help keep us all safe. I look at the young people they bring through surf lifesaving. It offers a wonderful opportunity for those young people not only to become such an important part of our community but also to take an active role in helping keep other Australians safe. My Christmas message to everyone is to stay safe on our roads and in and around water this festive season. Please have a thought for the volunteers who will be working on Christmas Day, when, hopefully, most of us will be enjoying our day.