Dan Repacholi (Hunter, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to recognise some truly outstanding Aussies from the Cessnock and Singleton local government areas whose service, generosity and leadership remind us what community spirit really looks like in the Hunter.

In the Cessnock LGA, the 2026 Citizen of the Year award has been presented to Tracey Skene, and it is richly deserved too. Through her tireless work with not-for-profit organisation Kiray Putjung, Tracey has created safe, welcoming and culturally strong spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the region. Her leadership in organising cultural and healing camps, workshops and support programs has provided guidance, connection and opportunity for personal growth for many in our community. Tracey has also played a central role in developing Cessnock's annual NAIDOC celebrations, helping to build understanding, pride and respect for Aboriginal culture across the broader community. Her strengths and connections preserve cultural heritage and ensure people feel seen, heard and supported.

Cessnock award recipients reflect the breadth of the community and the spirit of our region. Senior Citizen of the Year Janece Harrison continues to give back with quiet determination. Thank you for what you do. Young Citizen of the Year Taylee Short has made a remarkable contribution through her volunteering and community involvement, giving her time to local events, youth activities and community support initiatives. Taylee's willingness to step up, help others and lead by example shows that community service has a strong future in Cessnock.

I also want to acknowledge the team at Nulkaba Parkrun, the Community Event of the Year. I duck in there occasionally. I don't do so well, but I do get there. I acknowledge Castiel Martin for the Environment Award; Valerie Randall for the Heritage Award; and the many Community Award recipients, including Cessnock Women's Connect, Pastor Amanda Francis, Happy Paws Happy Hearts Hunter, Patricia Maybury, Charlie McLennan, Colleen Payne and Vicki Steep.

I turn to the Singleton Citizen of the Year. Tim Merrick embodies service in the truest sense. For 16 years, Tim has volunteered with the New South Wales State Emergency Service while working full time as a teacher at Singleton High. His leadership during the floods and emergencies across New South Wales, his courage in life-saving rescues and his commitment to mentoring others have made a lasting impact on the community and community safety and resilience.

Singleton's Young Achiever of the Year, Layla Korff, represents the next generation of leaders. Through her longstanding involvement with the Girl Guides, community events and youth mentoring. Layla has created inclusive spaces where young people can build confidence, skills and a sense of belonging.

These award recipients remind us that strong communities are built by people who show up, look out for one another and give time without exception. Cessnock and Singleton should be incredibly proud of all of you that are involved in this. Thank you very much, and thank you for what you do for our communities.