Simon Kennedy (Cook, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Minister to the Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I want to recognise four examples of care, courage and service in the seat of Cook. The Cancer Care Rehabilitation Foundation in Miranda helps local cancer patients access specialised care and exercise rehabilitation and removes the financial barrier to care. Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Patients can face fatigue, weakness, pain, loss of confidence and the feeling that their own body is changing beneath them. Recovery is not just about surviving treatment; it's about rebuilding strength, restoring independence and helping people return to the life they want to live. I particularly want to acknowledge Sharyn Wappett, a specialist oncology physiotherapist, and Megan McMinn, an oncology exercise physiologist, for their dedicated work supporting patients through treatment and recovery. By making this care available locally, the foundation is ensuring people in the shire are not having to face the physical challenges of cancer treatment alone.

I also recognise Cronulla's Elly Taylor, Founder of Becoming Us, for her work supporting new parents and families. So much preparation goes into the birth of a baby: parents go to classes, read books, attend appointments and learn what to expect. During the birth itself, there's a whole team around them, but then when the baby comes suddenly everything changes at home. There are new stresses and sleepless nights, there is confusion and pressure, and there's often tension between partners, who are both trying to do their best but are feeling overwhelmed. My wife and I have unfortunately experienced that firsthand. It can be one of the most joyful times in life, but it can also be one of the most testing times. Elly has identified something incredibly important: we prepare people for birth, but too often we don't prepare them for the transition into parenthood as a couple and as a family. Becoming Us helps mums and dads understand this transition, communicate better, manage stress and work together as a team. These programs, including those available through the St George and Sutherland hospitals, are making a real difference to families not only across the electorate but also across Sydney. Elly's message is simple but powerful: you don't have to figure it out all alone, and these classes are out there for you to get support.

I also acknowledge Hannah Dence, who is a trainer based in Cronulla and Founder of Mighty Mums. Hannah helps mothers exercise safely during pregnancy, after birth and through the many stages of motherhood. That support matters because mums are often so focused on caring for everyone else, and their own health and their own recovery can be pushed to the side. Through Mighty Mums, Hannah is giving local women practical guidance, community and encouragement. I've been down there to experience firsthand the classes and see it change lives. Her sessions help mothers rebuild strength, move safely, improve confidence, support their physical and mental wellbeing and create social cohesion, and the babies get there and join in too. At South Cronulla Beach each week the work is happening at a local, grassroots level. It's preventative health in action and helps women stay active, connected and supported before small changes become bigger ones. I thank Hannah for her leadership, for her advocacy and for her commitment to supporting mums and families right across our community.

I recognise Ryan Webber from Paragon Fit and the Cronulla community for coming together for the walk for stroke survivors. This walk marked the three-year anniversary of Ryan's own stroke. It was a moment that not only changed his life but also became the beginning of a powerful story of resilience, recovery and service to others. Congratulations, Ryan. You're a legend. Stroke can affect anyone at any age, and recovery is physical, emotional and deeply personal. The walk also raised funds for the Stroke Foundation, which helps support its work in education, prevention, research and assistance for survivors and families. I congratulate Ryan, Paragon Fit and everyone involved in organising and participating in the walk. What Ryan has done is a wonderful example of a local community turning personal adversity into action and using that experience to help others. His courage, determination and generosity are an inspiration. I wish him and all the stroke survivors continued strength in their recovery. I also give a quick shout-out to Brooke Bagnall, who is also doing amazing recovering from a stroke and has acted as my own personal trainer.

These stories show the best of our community—people stepping forward with compassion, expertise and practical help when they're facing some of life's hardest moments. Congratulations to you all.