Milton Dick (Speaker) | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm pleased to inform the House that present in the gallery today are students from Barker College who are visiting as part of a work experience trip, as guests of the member for Berowra.

I'm also going to acknowledge someone today who, whilst not being here, is watching us online at the moment, and that's Mr Stephen Smith, a longstanding and highly respected Comcar driver based in Melbourne. He will retire on 10 July, next week, after an extraordinary 44 years of dedicated service. We all know Comcar drivers play a vital and valued role in supporting the work of parliament. They ensure that members and senators can carry out their duties safely, efficiently and reliably, often working behind the scenes but always contributing to the smooth functioning of our democratic processes. Their professionalism, discretion and commitment are greatly appreciated by all of those who serve in this place. Mr Smith in particular will be a familiar face to many present in the chamber. For more than four decades he has provided exemplary service to countless members. Mr Smith has asked me that I convey this message to all members today. In his words, it has been an honour of a lifetime to serve members of parliament for so many years. On behalf of the House, I thank Mr Smith for his remarkable contribution to the parliament, to the nation and democracy, and I give a shout-out to all Comcar drivers.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!