Kevin Hogan (Page, National Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I'd like to recognise Father Peter Slack and Father Jim Griffin, as this year marks 50 years since they were both ordained as priests, which is a remarkable milestone in their vocation.

Father Peter attended high school at St John's College, Woodlawn. He was ordained at St Augustine's parish church in his hometown ofCoffs Harbour in August 1975. Father Jim is an ex-student of Marist Brothers Lismore and was ordained in St Carthage's cathedral in September 1975. Father Jim celebrated his jubilee mass in September this year in the same cathedral. For decades now, Father Peter and Father Jim have been an integral part of our community. They have supported generations of families in their faith journey and in the delivery of the sacraments. Congratulations and thank you to both Father Peter Slack and Father Jim Griffin.

I'd like to acknowledge Jason Whitton, who works as a security guard at the Casino and District Memorial Hospital. Jason recently won the Small Acts of Kindness Award at the 2025 NSW Health Awards. Jason's work behind the scenes doesn't go unnoticed, with his colleagues and patients describing him as a respectful, positive and fantastic leader. Jason said: 'I just want people to know someone is thinking about them and they haven't been forgotten. I want to make their day a bit better.' Jason's willingness to help people has impacted everyone at the Casino memorial hospital, including staff, patients and visitors. I'd like to recognise and acknowledge his partner, Rebecca, and children, Cameron and Erika. Thank you, Jason, for everything you do in our community.

I'd like to recognise outstanding local businesses who were finalists in this year's Australian Hotels Association NSW Awards, a celebration excellence across the hospitality industry. The Coramba Hotel was a finalist for Best Burger and Regional Hotel of the Year and won Best Steak Sandwich.Their chef Jamie Everson received highly commended for Regional Chef of the Year. The Seaview Tavern in Woopi was a finalist for the best family-friendly venue. Damien Duggan from the Crown Hotel Motel in Grafton was a finalist for Regional Chef of the Year. The Harwood Hotel—the Harwood Hilton, as we know it—was a finalist for Heart of the Community. The North Coast Hotel Group—

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The North Coast Hotel Group in Grafton was a finalist for Heart of the Community and Group Hotel Operator of the Year, and the Station Hotel in South Lismore was a finalist for Best Innovative Refurbishment, and so it should be—Joel Jensen Constructions did a great job on that. The Good Intent Hotel in South Grafton was a finalist for Best Regional Development and Best Cocktail List. Congratulations to you all.