Kristy McBain (Eden-Monaro, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Volunteers are the heart of regional communities, and I'm really proud to stand here today to congratulate the outstanding Eden-Monaro volunteers who were recognised in the 2025 southern inland and South Coast volunteer of the year awards. In southern inland, volunteer and adult volunteer of the year, Abby McPherson, from the Michelago RFS—of whom she is the RFS captain—was recognised for her leadership, innovation and dedication to community safety. The senior volunteer of the year was Adolf Franko for 14 years of service with the Snowy River and alpine search and rescue, marine rescue and Berridale RFS. The volunteer team of the year was the Terry Campese Foundation youth mentoring Tonga team, for supporting at-risk youth through community service and international outreach.

For the South Coast awards, volunteer and senior volunteer of the year went to Maree O'Neill for her tireless work across numerous Eden community organisations. Adult volunteer of the year went to Samarah McGovern for 20 years of dedication to the debutante ball tradition in Merimbula. To all recipients: thank you so much. Your service and leadership continue to inspire us all.

I'd like to congratulate Doug Palmer on being awarded life membership of the Bungendore rural fire brigade, after 27 years of dedicated service. Doug joined the RFS in September 1988 and has since received the National Medal, the National Emergency Medal and the 2019-20 bushfires clasp, the RFS Long Service Medal and the Premier's Bushfire Emergency Citation. Between 2005 and 2018 Doug served in a variety of roles, including as deputy captain, senior and captain. Over the years Doug attended more than 552 call-outs, undoubtedly saving countless lives, homes and our beautiful countryside. People like Doug are the cornerstone of our community, and I congratulate him on a well-deserved achievement.

In the 2025 New South Wales Tourism Awards, Eden-Monaro stood out. We had finalists across a number of categories, including tours, festivals, accommodation, food and more. Representing our diverse and stunning region are: Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council for delivering authentic cultural experiences and creating meaningful local jobs; the Narooma Oyster Festival, now in its 19th year, for showcasing our world-class oysters and coastal culture; Tathra Beach Eco Camp for its sustainable, nature based tourism; and Merimbula's Eat Festival for celebrating local food, chefs and producers on the beautiful foreshores of Fishpen. From the coast to the mountains, Eden-Monaro offers unforgettable experiences. Congratulations to all the finalists. You make our region proud.

Finally, I want to give a shout-out to Hunter Clark, a year 12 student, for her achievement of the Service Award for the New South Wales branch of the Order of Australia. She's been the captain of TS Orion cadets and the captain of Jindabyne High School. She was Snowy Monaro Young Citizen of the Year and is an all-round inspiration to young people. She said, when she was congratulated on the award, in the Monaro Post: 'Don't forget to smile. Its power is often underestimated, but it truly makes the biggest difference.' Thanks so much, Hunter, for all your work.