Alison Byrnes (Cunningham, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to highlight three community events I have recently had the privilege to attend in the Illawarra, each of them reflecting something fundamental about who we are as a region. I was honoured to join the community at Symbio Wildlife Park to celebrate its 50th anniversary. What began as just five acres of land has become a world renowned conservation park and a cherished local institution. Symbio's story is one of family stewardship across generations, from the Maplesons to the Grovers and now the Radnidge family, each building on the dreams of the last. Today Symbio is recognised not only as a major tourism attraction but also for its leading conservation work, from endangered species breeding programs to habitat restoration. Many people across the Illawarra—me included—grew up with Symbio as part of our childhoods. It is a place of learning, connection and care, and its first 50 years are something our entire region is very proud of.

Late last year I attended the 20th anniversary of SCARF, an organisation that has quietly but profoundly shaped the multicultural fabric of our region. For two decades, SCARF has supported refugees and new arrivals as they build safe, connected lives in the Illawarra. Founded on simple acts of kindness, the organisation has helped thousands of people find belonging in a new country. Since joining forces with the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra in 2021, that legacy has only grown stronger. SCARF's work reminds us that successful multiculturalism does not happen by accident. It is built through care, volunteering and a willingness to welcome others in.

In December I had the pleasure of speaking at the retirement dinner of Ken Habak, a remarkable local who has dedicated more than five decades to serving our community. Since 1971, Ken has worked tirelessly to support multicultural communities in the Illawarra, including 23 years as chair of MCCI. His leadership helped transform the organisation into the inclusive, modern institution that it is today. Ken's service has rightly been recognised with honours including an OAM, Australia Day Ambassador, and Wollongong Senior Citizen of the Year. The turnout at his retirement was a testament to the lives he has touched and the legacy he leaves behind.

Together, these events tell a powerful story about the Illawarra, a community that values care for our environment, compassion for one another and lifelong service to our community. I am proud to represent a region where that spirit is so clearly alive.