Tim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party, Shadow Treasurer) | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I rise to pay tribute to the life of Patricia Ilhan, a mother, philanthropist and woman of extraordinary gifts. I first met Trish many years ago when I first ran for parliament. She was a true believer in the Brighton community. After one of her children suffered a serious allergic reaction, she and her late husband, John, established the Ilhan Food Allergy Foundation in 2006, turning a frightening family experience into support, research and advocacy for others. Patricia took personal hardship and used it to make other people safer, more informed and less alone. I witnessed as she worked with others in her community who had suffered from breast cancer and built a group called Breast Friends to turn that difficulty into opportunity.

Hardship, of course, was a significant part of Patricia's life because she lost her husband at such a young age, leaving her and her children. She carried warmth, courage and a deep commitment to family, friends and the causes she championed. I was privileged to be with her at her second wedding, on the Mornington Peninsula, to her husband, Chris Blackman.

To Yasmin, Hannah, Jaida, Aydin and of course Chris, we send our deepest condolences and thoughts at this difficult time. Patricia leaves behind not just the organisations she supported but also her generosity and kindness of spirit. Vale, Patricia, 62 years young. You will be missed by the entire community.