Ed Husic (Chifley, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I want to let the parliament know about the incredible success of the 14th annual Chifley Coral McLean Awards, a celebration of women whose compassion, leadership and strength continue to shape our community for the better. We also took the opportunity to raise funds for a local women's group, Community in Fellowship Together. I wanted to give a special shout-out to our terrific guest speaker this year, journalist and radio presenter Chris Bath, who proved to be one of the most entertaining speakers we've had in a while—other than, say, the member for Riverina. Her warmth and wisdom truly struck a chord with everyone in the room.

Each year, the awards honour the legacy of Coral McLean. Coral was a woman who dedicated her life to social justice, reconciliation and community service. It was estimated that she devoted 100,000 hours of her time to people in our area. Even when she moved out of Mount Druitt and was up on the Central Coast, her door would be open to people who would travel to her in an hour of need, and she would be there for them. She was a tremendous Australian. This year's recipients, especially the Coral McLean Award winner Sister Carlene Allen, could not have embodied Coral McLean's spirit more. For nearly two decades, Sister Carlene supported women, families and vulnerable locals through her work at Holy Family Parish. She's a true pillar of compassion in Mount Druitt and the surrounding suburbs.

We also recognised Chifley Woman of the Year, Hanna Shamoka, and Chifley Young Woman of the Year, Aarushi Duggal. The MP Recognition Award went to Learning Ground's Cassandra Jackson. Each of these women gives so much of themselves, from supporting vulnerable families to uplifting and inspiring young people, building bridges across cultures, generations and communities. Their stories remind us of something deeply important—that strong communities are built by people who care, people who show up and people who quietly change lives every single day. Our winners and nominees reflect the very best of Western Sydney. The dedication they have is inspiring. It challenges us. It gives us hope for the future.

I want to thank every volunteer, supporter, performer and community member who helped make this year's ceremony such a success—as they do each and every year. Most importantly, I want to thank the women that we honoured. Their work doesn't just strengthen our community; it strengthens the sense of who we are and makes our area a better, kinder place to live.