Tony Pasin (Barker, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to recognise and congratulate the outstanding Australians from the electorate of Barker who have been honoured as part of the Australia Day honours and awards. Australia Day honours provide an opportunity for our nation to acknowledge individuals who have made an outstanding and enduring contribution to Australia. These honours recognise service, leadership and dedication that enrich our communities and strengthen our country. They reflect the very best of the Australian spirit—service above self.

This year Barker was proudly represented by a number of exceptional recipients. I congratulate Neville Bonney OAM, who was recognised for his service to conservation, the environment and the community. Mr Bonney has been a longstanding advocate for environmental stewardship and has contributed significantly to local conservation initiatives and community organisations. I also wish to congratulate Stephen Day OAM, whose award acknowledges his service to charitable organisations and to the finance sector. Mr Day has dedicated many years to supporting community and charitable causes through leadership roles and professional expertise within the financial sector.

Ms Gerlinde Trappe OAM is recognised for her service to the community of the Barossa and to the arts. Her contribution has played an important role in supporting local cultural initiatives and strengthening community engagement through the arts. I also wish to acknowledge Dr William Gransbury OAM, who has been honoured for his service to the community of Angaston. Dr Gransbury has made a sustained contribution to civic life in Angaston through long-term community involvement and service in areas as diverse as mental health, heritage, community and sport.

I also congratulate Mr Harold Long OAM, who is recognised for his service to the communities of Mannum, Salt Creek and Padthaway and, in particular, for his work supporting young people. Mr Long's commitment to youth development and to community participation has a long-lasting impact across multiple regional communities. He was, coincidentally, the year 3 teacher of two of my electorate office staff, who have many fond memories of Mr Long, including learning and performing the national anthem to their peers. Under Mr Long's tutelage, students were required to be able to recite both verses of the national anthem before they completed year 3.

Barker is home to recipients of distinguished service medals. I congratulate Mr John Probert, awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal, and Mr Kieran Johnson, awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, for distinguished service for their respective organisations. Their commitment to protecting lives and community deserves our deepest thanks.

To all those recognised this Australia Day, I want to say thank you. Thank you for everything you do. You strengthen our communities and you make Barker an even better place to live, work and raise a family.