Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My electorate of Holt is home to one of our newest Order of Australia recipients, Joan Graham. For more than 50 years Joan has selflessly fostered countless children. From tucking in the little ones at night and reading them bedtime stories to being the parental figure they needed, she showered these children with love and a non-judgemental attitude to ensure all children felt safe and supported. For more than 40 years, Joan volunteered for the foster care agency OzChild, and retired only two years ago after a fall. Joan is also a proud mum of four with her late husband, Brian.

Learning of Joan's story reinforces the infinite love people can have for one another. Throughout the last 50 years, Joan has shown that no matter what is going on in our personal lives, we can always make time to help others. Congratulations, Joan, on your OAM. I am so proud and honoured to represent someone of your calibre in this place.