Legislative Assembly: That This Bill Be Now Agreed To in Principle

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LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
Friday 19 June 2009
__________
The Speaker (The Hon. George Richard Torbay) took the chair at 10.00 a.m.
The Speaker read the Prayer and acknowledgement of country.
NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE (BROKEN HEAD NATURE RESERVE) BILL 2009
Bill introduced on motion by Mr John Aquilina, on behalf of Ms Carmel Tebbutt.
Agreement in Principle
Mr JOHN AQUILINA (Riverstone—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.00 a.m.]: I move:

That this bill be now agreed to in principle.
This bill proposes to revoke six small parcels of land, totalling 981 square metres, from Broken Head Nature
Reserve. This will enable the land to be transferred to the traditional owners of the land, the Bundjalung people
of Byron Bay—the Arakwal people—as part of an Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the New South Wales
Government. To ensure that national parks and nature reserves are protected in perpetuity, lands reserved under
the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 may not be revoked except by an Act of Parliament. From time to
time circumstances arise that require the revocation of lands reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
The revocation of lands will generally be undertaken as an avenue of last resort and only where appropriate.
Broken Head Nature Reserve lies adjacent to Broken Head Caravan Park. Over time, these small
parcels of land have inadvertently become part of the well-established camping area located in the caravan park.
This is a very minor revocation proposal. Broken Head Nature Reserve is a 98-hectare reserve located five
kilometres south of the Byron Bay township. It is one of the Byron Coast group of nature reserves that, along
with Brunswick Heads and Tyagarah nature reserves, contribute to the unique natural character of the Byron
Bay area. The nature reserve is bounded by Broken Head Caravan Park to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the
east, Seven Mile Beach to the south, and Seven Mile Beach Road to the west. It protects extensive areas of
littoral rainforest, brush box, forests and woodlands, and headland grasslands. It has steep headlands, small
coves and beautiful beaches. The area is culturally significant to the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay.
The Indigenous Land Use Agreement between New South Wales and the Bundjalung people of Byron
Bay—the Arakwal people—was signed on 20 December 2006. Under this agreement, the Bundjalung people of
Byron Bay—the Arakwal people—will surrender any potential native title in the lands and waters in the area
around Broken Head, and approximately 70 hectares of Crown land will be added to the national parks system,
namely, additions to Arakwal National Park, Broken Head Nature Reserve and Cumbebin Swamp Nature
Reserve. Also under the agreement, Broken Head Caravan Park, which is Crown land lying to the north of the
nature reserve, will be transferred to the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay—the Arakwal people.
This outcome is good for Aboriginal communities and for conservation of the State's natural and
cultural heritage. It will create employment opportunities for local Aboriginal communities and improve caring
for country opportunities through co-management of national parks and reserves. It will also complement
existing tourism and recreation in the iconic Byron Bay area. Over the years, since the nature reserve was
established in 1974, the caravan park has inadvertently encroached on the nature reserve in six separate areas,
totalling 981 square metres. These small parcels of land are now well-established camping areas and have
negligible conservation value for the nature reserve. Under the agreement, the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay
will maintain ownership of the caravan park for a minimum of 10 years. A covenant on the land title will ensure
that it remains a caravan park in perpetuity.
This proposal is essentially a minor boundary adjustment and must be considered in the wider context.
These small encroachments, in six separate land parcels, totalling only 981 square metres, make up only
0.1 per cent of the entire nature reserve. It is also important to note that this stage two Indigenous Land Use
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Agreement with the Bundjalung people will deliver the addition of more than 70 hectares of Crown land to
national parks and nature reserves in the area. This agreement is the second of its kind in Byron Bay. The first
Indigenous Land Use Agreement was signed in 2001 and resulted in the creation of the Arakwal National Park.
This was the first such agreement in Australia that created a national park, which is jointly managed by the
National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay.
In recognition of its success and significance, the New South Wales Government and the Bundjalung
people of Byron Bay were honoured with an award from the World Conservation Union for distinguished
achievements in wildlife conservation and for joint management of the Arakwal National Park. The revocation
of these small parcels of land from Broken Head Nature Reserve and transfer to the Bundjalung people of Byron
Bay—the Arakwal people—as part of Broken Head Caravan Park, will enable the implementation of the stage
two Indigenous Land Use Agreement and support further Aboriginal co-management of national parks in Byron
Bay. I commend the bill to the House.
Debate adjourned on motion by Mr Thomas George and set down as an order of the day for a
future day.
ROOKWOOD NECROPOLIS REPEAL BILL 2009
Agreement in Principle
Debate resumed from 17 June 2009.
Mr DARYL MAGUIRE (Wagga Wagga) [10.08 a.m.]: I lead for the Opposition in debate on the
Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill 2009. Rookwood cemetery has an interesting background. In the early days a
rail line serviced the Rookwood cemetery. The cemetery line used to be part of the Sydney suburban network
known as the city line, which serviced the Rookwood cemetery. It was built in 1864 and opened on 22 October
1864. With the closure of the Town Hall and Devonshire cemeteries by the mid 1800s and an ever-increasing
population, a decision was made in 1862 to purchase a huge area of land—250 acres—to establish the
necropolis at Haslams Creek in 1867.
The term "necropolis" comes from the Greek "nekropolis" or "City of the Dead." As this location was
some distance from the centre of Sydney and from the main line train station at Haslams Creek, it was
considered necessary to establish a railway station at the centre of the cemetery. This line ran as a spur line from
the existing station at Haslams Creek and enabled easier movement into and out of the cemetery. The railway
line construction began in November 1864, and from 1 January 1865 trains began to run to the cemetery railway
station. I thought that information would provide an interesting background to the bill.
The Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill 2009 repeals the Rookwood Necropolis Act 1901 and makes
changes to the Crown Lands Act 1989 to facilitate the administration of Rookwood Cemetery as a single parcel
of Crown land under a new body, the Rookwood Necropolis Trust, which will replace the Joint Committee of
the Necropolis Trustees, taking on its staff, assets, rights and liabilities. Rookwood Cemetery is divided into
denominational and operational areas with individual officers, staff and equipment overseeing different parts of
the entire area. The cemetery is now managed by five denominational trusts, each of which is responsible for the
care and maintenance of a number of burial sections catering to various ethnic and cultural groups within the
community. The trusts are the Anglican and General Cemetery Trusts, the Catholic Cemeteries Board, the
Independent Cemetery Trust, the Jewish Cemetery Trust, the Muslim Cemetery Trust and the New South Wales
Crematorium Company. The New South Wales Cremation Company founded and operates Rookwood
Crematorium, the oldest operating crematorium in the country; it is the only private company operating a
cemetery section within the necropolis grounds. Invacare Australia Pty Ltd owns the company.
The individual trusts manage funds for the future upkeep, management and maintenance of the site
once the trusts no longer receive income from interments when the cemetery is full, which is anticipated to be in
around 20 to 25 years. This bill results from a review conducted by the Department of Lands into the
management of the cemetery. The review recommended establishing a new independent management body to
work closely with the denominational trusts to renew focus on sustainable management of Rookwood as a single
parcel of Crown land. The main change is the proposed replacement of the Joint Committee of the Necropolis
Trustees, which represents sectional interests of the cemetery, with the Rookwood Necropolis Trust, comprising
skilled land managers who will work directly with the day-to-day operational managers of the denominational
trusts.
16400 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY 19 June 2009
The bill preserves Rookwood Cemetery's current funding sources—that is, rent from the general
crematorium lease and interment levies paid by the individual trusts, based on the number of cremation burials
carried out each year, but moves budgeting to a financial year budget consistent with the provisions of trusts
under the Crown Lands Act. The proposed changes are consistent with management arrangements for most
other cemeteries in New South Wales that are managed in accordance with the Crown Lands Act. The
denominational trusts at Rookwood are established already and governed under the provisions of the Crown
Lands Act. The bill preserves the income for the overall maintenance and improvement of common
infrastructure within Rookwood, preserves the crematorium lease and preserves the mechanism for determining
interment levies paid by the denominational trusts and the crematorium lessee.
The bill makes no changes to the management of investments held by the individual trusts, which fund
the upkeep and maintenance of the Rookwood site and must do so in the future when no income will be received
from interments. Concern has been expressed that these funds may be consolidated into revenue, but I believe
that will not be the case. Representatives of the denominational trusts have indicated that they are satisfied with
the Department of Lands' consultation concerning the proposed changes. We are grateful for the consultation
process in this instance because quite often in this place we find that consultation regarding new legislation is
not effective or as wide ranging as communities would like. General representatives of the denominational trusts
believe the proposed changes will allow better holistic planning for administration of the cemetery. Importantly,
they understand that they will have a similar level of input into decisions as they currently enjoy.
None of the denominational trusts has representation on the new Rookwood Necropolis Trust. The
trusts are concerned that the Rookwood Necropolis Trust could raise the interment levies paid by the
denominational trusts and the crematorium, thus creating a death tax by proxy—for want of a better phrase—
that would be borne by families in burial costs. I ask the Minister in reply to address that particular issue.
Representatives of the denominational trusts have suggested that the proposed changes to the management
structure of Rookwood Cemetery could be extended to other cemeteries not covered by the Crown Lands Act.
This would mean that all other cemeteries would be under the control of a single authority, similar to the
structure in Perth. The Opposition does not oppose the bill, but seeks clarification from the Minister on the
issues I have raised. It is important that through Hansard the public will be able to understand what the bill
entails. The Minister's response to those concerns is the appropriate solution.
Mr BARRY COLLIER (Miranda—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.16 a.m.], in reply: I thank the

member for Wagga Wagga for his considered contribution to the debate. I note the Opposition does not oppose
the Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill 2009. The Rookwood Necropolis is one of the largest cemeteries in the
world. In fact, it is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill 2009 ushers
in a new management framework for Australia's largest cemetery, but does so whilst preserving the day-to-day
responsibilities of the denominational trusts and, importantly, the ongoing funding required to maintain and
improve Rookwood's common infrastructure. By bringing the management of Rookwood completely under the
provisions of the Crown Lands Act we are equipping the new management model with modern, flexible
legislation that is able to adapt to the changing demands placed on public cemeteries. The new trust, the
Rookwood Necropolis Trust, will be able to treat the one piece of dedicated land that is the Rookwood
Necropolis as one single cemetery. In doing so, it will bring to the table a renewed focus on the needs and
appearance of the necropolis as an integrated whole and how Rookwood presents itself to the community.
This focus will complement the ongoing work of the denominational trust managers and their
commitment to meeting the needs of the many diverse communities and religious groups they serve. The
Rookwood committee of managers, largely comprising the operational managers of the various denominational
cemeteries, will act as a conduit between the needs of the individual trusts and the overarching goals of the
Rookwood Necropolis Trust. The Rookwood committee of managers will be a practically focused group,
bringing cemetery management expertise and an awareness of the particular needs of their constituent
communities to work with the Rookwood Necropolis Trust in implementing a new plan of management and
devising practical, consistent and effective policies. In this way the new management structure not only will
have a new focus, but also will achieve balanced outcomes in the interests of the individual and that of the
whole.
The Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill completes one chapter in the fascinating history of this grand
necropolis, a history to which the member for Wagga Wagga alluded. However, it also opens a new chapter that
helps Rookwood continue to meet the needs of the community well into the twenty-first century and at the same
time acknowledges and preserves the rich heritage, the unique environment and the past and present human
stories, as well as the cultural and religious significance that makes Rookwood such a remarkable cemetery and
important part of the grand tale of Sydney. The Government introduced a number of amendments in the upper
House.
The amendments followed feedback from the Rookwood trusts, and the Government was pleased to
move amendments to meet the suggestions that were made. The first amendment refers to the definition of
interment in clause 51 of part 6 of the first schedule. While the definition has worked until now, with the
increasing acceptance of cremation the amendment will clarify that the term "interment", in the context of the
Rookwood interment levy, does not mean the interment of ashes arising from a cremation. The second
amendment relates to proposed section 41B in schedule 2 and ensures that the new Rookwood Necropolis Trust,
the successor of the joint committee, must consult with the denominational trusts when preparing its annual
budget. Given that the Joint Committee of Necropolis Trustees is comprised in part of denominational trust
representatives, this amendment ensures a continuation of past practices and ensures that all trusts are involved
in the preparation of the Rookwood Necropolis Trust's budget.
The final amendment moved by the Government in response to feedback from the trusts is to proposed
section 41C, schedule 2. This clarifies that the additional fee for denominational trusts operating a crematorium
is not payable by the general crematorium lessee, which already pays a significant rent under the terms and
conditions of the lease. The Opposition raised a number of issues relating to the interment levy. Special
provisions relating to the interment levy are in proposed section 41B of the bill. I refer in particular to proposed
section 41B (1) (d), which states that the levy is determined after a draft budget is submitted to the Minister for
approval.
The Rookwood Necropolis Trust cannot raise levies without the express consent of the Minister. That
is what occurs under the superseded system, and nothing of substance has changed in the new management
structure. Furthermore, the Government passed an amendment in the other place to ensure that the Rookwood
Necropolis Trust negotiates the annual budget with the denominational trusts. In response to the Opposition's
other concerns, I point out that the bill brings Rookwood into line with most other Crown cemeteries in the
greater metropolitan area, which are managed in accordance with the Crown Lands Act. The existing interment
levy is unique to Rookwood, and the bill does not specifically impact on any other cemetery managed under the
Crown Lands Act. Having said that, I commend the bill to the House.
Question—That this bill be now agreed to in principle—put and resolved in the affirmative.
Motion agreed to.
Bill agreed to in principle.
Passing of the Bill
Bill declared passed and returned to the Legislative Council without amendment.
BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE
Business Lapsed
General Business Notices of Motions (General Notices) Nos 1, 2, 4 and 5 to 9 on the Business
Paper for Thursday 18 June 2009 lapsed pursuant to Standing Order 105 (3).
ACTING-SPEAKER (Mr Thomas George): Order! Government Business having concluded, the
House will proceed to Committee reports.
LEGISLATION REVIEW COMMITTEE
Report: Legislation Review Digest No. 8 of 2009
Question—That the House take note of the report—proposed.
Mr ALLAN SHEARAN (Londonderry) [10.24 a.m.]: It is with pleasure that I comment on the
"Legislation Review Digest No. 8 of 2009", dated 15 June 2009, which was received out of session. Eleven bills
in total were examined in this digest report. Two letters of reply from Ministers were also received and
published in the report. I will briefly summarise for members some of the issues of concern as well as issues
relating to trespass of personal rights and liberties that were identified by the committee in "Legislation Review
Digest No. 8".
The issues include freedom of association and the right of an offender to live in their home, their right
to visit or live with close family, their right to work and their right to worship in relation to the Courts and Other
Legislation Amendment Bill 2009; excluding the right to seek compensation in relation to the Electricity Supply
Amendment (GGAS Abatement Certificates) Bill 2009; access and membership representation and the right to
privacy and property in relation to the power to stop, detain and search vehicles or vessels arising from the
Game and Feral Animal Control Amendment Bill 2009; excluding the right to seek compensation in respect of
the New South Wales Lotteries (Authorised Transaction) Bill 2009; and consumer protection and the right to
compensation or relief arising from the Occupational Licensing Legislation (Regulatory Reform) Bill 2009.
In response to concerns raised by the committee, the Minister for Transport provided a reply relating to
the Parking Space Levy Regulation 2009, which was provided for in schedule 2 to the Parking Space Levy Bill
2009 when it was introduced to Parliament. The Minister for Roads also provided a response to concerns the
committee raised about the Tow Truck Industry Regulation 2008 when the committee reported on the regulation
in "Legislation Review Digest No. 10 of 2008" in relation to its regulatory impact statement. Members may go
directly to the current digest report if they are interested in reading the details of these ministerial responses.
As all members will be aware, the committee tables its digests at or before the commencement of
sittings on a Tuesday to enable its reports on bills to be available to members in time for second reading debates.
Obviously, it is always the prerogative of the government of the day to place any legislative provisions it sees fit
before Parliament to pursue its policy objectives. Notwithstanding that, it also continues to be the responsibility
of the Legislation Review Committee to perform its role under the Legislation Review Act 1987. In highlighting
the concerns within the committee's terms of reference, I trust the committee has been both informative and
educational in assisting members during their deliberations.
Mr DARYL MAGUIRE (Wagga Wagga) [10.28 a.m.]: For a moment I was concerned that the
Chairman of the Legislation Review Committee would not appear, but he charged through the door of the
Chamber at the last minute to comment on yet another very valuable report of the Legislation Review
Committee, "Legislation Review Digest No. 8 of 2009". There are two issues I wish to discuss relating to the
report. The first is the committee's examination of the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Mortgagee
Repossessions) Bill 2009. I point out to the chairman that I did not see any reference to the problem identified
by the Opposition regarding the legislation. The amendment that was made to rectify what I regard as sloppy
legislation on the part of the Government, the amendment to new section 71A, received a great deal of publicity.
But for the amendment, the legislation would have allowed continuing occupancy by a former tenant, once a
mortgagee took possession, without the former tenant paying rent to the landlord.
The Opposition's amendment, which was accepted in the other place and in this House on 18 June,
closed a loophole and brought some sense to the legislation. I point out to the chairman that the flaw in the
legislation slipped under the committee's radar. It is a shame that legislation, even having been examined by the
Legislation Review Committee, could get to this House and still need to be amended by the Government
because not enough effort had been put into its preparation. The Government had 18 months to formulate a draft
bill, but the legislation still had flaws in it when it was introduced. That is not the first time it has happened.
I feel obliged to point that out because members expect more forensic examination of legislation. I encourage
the chairman of the committee—as I have always encouraged him—to undertake closer scrutiny of legislation,
as I am sure all members of the House would appreciate that.
I note that the committee considered the Parking Space Levy Bill 2009. In the report the committee
expressed concern about the lack of a cost-benefit analysis of the Parking Space Levy Regulation. It would not
be the first time members have raised concerns about the lack of a cost-benefit analysis. Yesterday the Leader of
the Opposition asked the Premier to put forward his cost-benefit analysis, and all we got was wind and blank
looks. The Parking Space Levy Bill is of major concern because it disadvantages business to the benefit of large
shopping centres. Parking levies for all businesses in the central business district will increase by 110 per cent.
For instance, a levy of $1,000 will increase to $2,200. That means that businesses, whether they be restaurants,
travel agencies or any other business that offers parking, must find the money to pay an extra 110 per cent for
the levy.
I suggest that members have an interest in this matter because this precinct will suffer from the same
enormous increase in charges. I am surprised that the committee did not focus more on that issue. However, the
media has focused on the issue, and business chambers of commerce and others have commented on the
enormous tax increase that the New South Wales Government has seen fit to implement. If members want
another reason that business is suffering, business confidence is at a low, New South Wales is the
worst-performing State in Australia and we have the highest unemployment rate, they can point their fingers
squarely at that levy increase. While the Premier is suggesting that his plan will save the economic world in
New South Wales, legislation to increase the parking levy has gone through the Parliament—although the
Coalition opposed it. I would appreciate more comments on concern about the lack of a cost-benefit analysis of
the parking space levy. Indeed, I suggest that the committee chair write to the Premier and demand a
cost-benefit analysis, which he can report back on in the next legislation review.
Mrs JUDY HOPWOOD (Hornsby) [10.33 a.m.]: I will make a brief contribution to discussion of the
report of the Legislation Review Committee entitled "Legislation Review Digest No. 8 of 2009", dated 15 June.
As a member of the committee I look forward to making a contribution when committee reports are debated on
Friday morning. I thank the Government for seeing fit to include this in our program. Members get precious
little time to scrutinise legislation, and they need the opportunity to do so. Legislation is often rushed through
the Parliament, and we had examples of exactly that only this week. The Legislation Review Committee does its
best to take in hand the legislation proposed for the week and it looks critically at all aspects relating to the
rights of individuals, and associated matters.
The bills considered by the committee this week were the Coroners Bill 2009, the Courts and Other
Legislation Amendment Bill 2009, the Electricity Supply Amendment (GGAS Abatement Certificates) Bill
2009, the Game and Feral Animal Control Amendment Bill 2009, the NSW Lotteries (Authorised Transaction)
Bill 2009, the NSW Trustee and Guardian Bill 2009, the Occupational Licensing Legislation Amendment
(Regulatory Reform) Bill 2009, the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Mortgagee Repossessions) Bill 2009,
the Rookwood Necropolis Repeal Bill 2009, the Rural Lands Protection Amendment Bill 2009 and the State
Emergency and Rescue Management Amendment Bill 2009. Those bills show the diversity of matters before the
Parliament and, indeed, before the people of New South Wales. I refer to the State Emergency and Rescue
Management Amendment Bill 2009 because 50 per cent of my electorate is covered by trees and two national
parks.
I take seriously my relationship with local emergency service providers. The State Emergency and
Rescue Management Amendment Bill 2009 was of great interest as I have a good relationship with all the
providers. The bill was designed to amend the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 to provide
for the appointment of a State emergency recovery controller, and it aims to improve and streamline emergency
recovery arrangements in New South Wales. The amendments contained in the bill create two new statutory
positions: the State Emergency Recovery Controller, known as SERCon, and the Deputy State Emergency
Recovery Controller. The SERCon, appointed by the Minister for Emergency Services, is to be an existing
member of the New South Wales Senior Executive Service with experience in emergency management. The
SERCon will also become a member of the State Disaster Council and the State Emergency Management
Committee.
According to the agreement in principle speech, the SERCon's primary roles are to create a sustainable
emergency recovery capability for New South Wales and to control the recovery from an emergency that affects
more than one district or for which he or she assumes responsibility. The deputy SERCon is also to be an
existing member of the New South Wales Senior Executive Service or a senior officer with experience in
emergency management. The agreement in principle speech indicates that the SERCon will bring together the
relevant government agencies and organisations to ensure the necessary services and assistance are provided in a
coordinated and timely manner. In addition to the power to engage the State Government agencies, the SERCon
will be able to liaise with industry, non-government organisations, local government and the Commonwealth
Government as needed in order to address issues that arise.
There have been serious fires and adverse weather events in Hornsby and in surrounding electorates so
I am happy that something is being done to improve the management of, and support for, our valuable
volunteers who work tirelessly, often giving up a lot of their time. Any support and extra resources that can be
provided are a wonderful step forward. I pay tribute to the Rural Fire Service in my area, the fire brigade, the
State Emergency Service, the police, the Royal Coastal Volunteer Patrol, the Hawkesbury River rescue
personnel and any other people who volunteer to assist in a disaster. They could be those who help provide food
or those who coordinate assistance during events, for example, if people are stranded in a fire. The bill is part of
a raft of important legislation that we must consider. Only this week Angelo Baldo, the captain of the Rural Fire
Service in the area, gave local members an in-depth report and briefing on where the service is at and where it
intends to go. It is instrumental and important to have a good relationship with the local State Emergency
Service, the Rural Fire Service, police and other emergency service providers.
Question—That the House take note of the report—put and resolved in the affirmative.
Report noted.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Mr Thomas George): Order! Orders of the Day for Committee reports having
concluded, the House will now proceed to private members' statements.
PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENTS
Question—That private members' statements be noted—proposed.
POLICE MEDAL AND AWARDS PRESENTATION
Mr ALLAN SHEARAN (Londonderry) [10.38 a.m.]: I inform the House about two police medal and
awards presentation days I attended recently, hosted at the Mt Druitt Local Area Command and the Hawkesbury
Local Area Command. While I am sure all members attend such events regularly, I was prompted to make
comment after hearing about the deeds and the service of these men and women who represent the fine
traditions of our Police Force. In attendance at each event representing the Commissioner of Police was the
Region Commander, North West Metropolitan Region, Assistant Commissioner Dennis Clifford. Additionally,
at the Mt Druitt presentation I was accompanied by my parliamentary colleagues the Hon. Roger Price, Federal
member for Chifley, and the Hon. Richard Amery, the member for Mt Druitt. At the Hawkesbury presentation
I was accompanied by the Hon. John Aquilina, MP, and the Mayor of Hawkesbury, Councillor Bart Bassett.
I make mention of these representatives as their attendance demonstrates that elected officials truly appreciate
the efforts of our Police Force personnel.
These presentations give a little insight into the fine men and women who serve our community so
faithfully in the New South Wales Police Force. Also acknowledged at the Mt Druitt presentations were
members of the community who, when needed, assisted police in their duties to keep our community safe. At
the Mt Druitt presentation a total of 47 awards were presented. These included the National Medal, Police
Medal and Clasps, Commissioner's Unit Citation and the Local Area Commander's Commendation. There were
also Local Area Commander's Certificates of Merit, Local Area Commander's Unit Citation and Local Area
Commander's Certificates of Appreciation, along with Certificates of Recognition for Volunteers in Policing. To
say I was impressed by the commitment and dedication of all officers is an understatement; I was also very
proud of these men and women, particularly when I learnt of the endeavours that were being recognised, such as
those acknowledged by the Local Area Commander's Commendations given to Leading Senior Constable
Tracey Butler, Detective Matthew Fowler and Detective Benjamin Gray.
Those brave police showed the sort of courage and professionalism that is required of our Police Force.
Those officers attended a public brawl and were confronted by more than 100 people. Thanks to these brave
officers with their quick and decisive actions, the crowd was dispersed and public order restored. They effected
a number of arrests and also achieved successful prosecutions. Also a Local Area Commander's Certificate of
Merit was awarded to Senior Constable Martyn Pepperell who acted with professionalism when witnessing an
axe attack on a member of the public, arresting those responsible and giving lifesaving first aid to the victim.
Owing to time constraints, it would be impossible to name all the fine officers who received awards but these
brief examples give some insight to the dangers our police can face at any time. We tend to forget that these
officers never know what situations they may face each day they leave home for work. They never know
whether they may be injured as a result of the job they have to do or what atrocities they might be called upon to
attend. It is a demanding profession that requires our never-ending support.
At the Hawkesbury presentations there was recognition of the men and women who had completed
more than 15 years diligent and ethical service. When the clasps to New South Wales Police medals were
presented to 13 officers I did a quick calculation and was surprised to realise that between them those 13 men
and women had completed more than 295 years of service to the people of New South Wales. As members of
Parliament we try to make sure that these brave men and women have the resources to do the jobs we ask of
them. I was particularly pleased this week to learn that the Government has indicated in this budget that there
will be a $10 million investment to provide Taser stun guns to frontline police, along with a record budget of
$2.6 billion. I also note the commitment to employing an additional 750 officers by December 2011, and
acknowledge that the New South Wales Police Force is the fourth largest in the world.
While the provision of proper resources helps our officers fight crime and protect our community, it is
the work on the ground by the men and women of the Police Force which has seen the recent crime trends going
down in nearly all categories and for this we should all congratulate them on their ongoing efforts. While
acknowledging the success of our Police Force we should also recognise the support of their loved ones, family
and friends without which our officers would find the challenges they face so much more demanding. Further,
during the Mt Druitt presentations I was delighted to see the recognition of the contribution of some of our
community members. For instance, people like Mr Iain Olsen, Mr Jason Newman, Mr Simon Willis and Mr Ken
Conway, and also Mr Jack Datta, Mr Shaun Rogers, Mr Grant Keating, Mr Douglas Balsom and Mr Kevin Hall.
I might add that Mr Kevin Hall, a good friend of mine, was recognised for generously donating his time
for more than eight years in assisting police to ensure the integrity of the destruction of prohibited drugs in
accordance with the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act. It is not unusual to see Kevin recognised for he has
always been ready to help the community when and where he can. It is not surprising to learn that he has played
a significant long-term role as a member of the Rooty Hill RSL Club and a former president of the sub-branch.
We also should not forget those who volunteer, especially those who have given 5,000 hours of voluntary
service to the community, such as Mr Peter Robinson, and also Margaret Cullen and Mr June Balenzuela, who
have given 3,000 hours of voluntary service. I might add that it is not surprising to learn that Margaret is also
very active in a number of community organisations. I want to record my personal appreciation for all these
wonderful people who play such important roles in ensuring our community receives the protection and safety it
deserves.
Mr BARRY COLLIER (Miranda—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.43 a.m.]: I am sure all members join
the member for Londonderry and me in congratulating and thanking police in the local area commands in his
electorate and in all electorates for their hard work. Police officers, men and women, lay their lives on the line
for us every day. It is important for them to know that every member of Parliament is behind them and support
them. The member for Londonderry referred to officers who collectively have given 295 years of service and
dedicated commitment to their communities, and we all deeply appreciate their devotion to duty. The member
also referred to volunteers who play a wonderful role in supporting our hardworking frontline police. I am sure
all members of the House join me in commending those men and women. I thank the member for Londonderry
for drawing the attention of the House to the hardworking police men and women in his electorate.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Mr Thomas George): Order! I am sure the House joins in those sentiments.
HORNSBY ELECTORATE SCHOOLS
Mrs JUDY HOPWOOD (Hornsby) [10.44 a.m.]: I want to highlight the concerns of schools in my
electorate in light of the recent Building the Education Revolution [BER] funding and congratulate them on
their wonderful role in education. Brooklyn Public School needs extra resources as a result of the sale of the
Mooney Mooney Public School. Brooklyn school has old buildings and no school hall. I do not know whether
the Government will make safe a huge drain into which a child could fall that is located outside the precincts of
Middle Dural Public School and near the bus stop. That school is also concerned about what it can purchase
with the BER funding, and needs increased security because of vandalism and theft. The general fears and
concerns of schools in my electorate are: ongoing maintenance, which the Government promised, as they never
seem to be able to catch up; the future for before and after school care; and the proposed rent for school canteens
and school uniform shops. The Minister has been quite unclear in relation to that matter, and correspondence
I have received states that they are not out of the woods yet and might be slugged with a large rent.
My electorate does not have one set of flashing lights at schools or painted dragon teeth on the roads,
which is an absolute travesty. I call on the Government to get a move on in relation to that matter. It is integral
that our children are safe when they go to and from school and I particularly refer to the need for kiss-and-drop
zones at schools. Many of the schools in my electorate are old and do not have adequate facilities. I meet
regularly with all schools in my electorate, but Hornsby North Public School has been given the run-around in
relation to BER funding. Lara Watt, President of the Parents and Citizens Association at that school, wrote to
me about her concerns as follows:
We were told that Nat. School Pride money was to be used for maintenance of the school eg carpets and painting—
that was not the intention of that money—

On commencement of the maintenance we were advised that the money could also be used for Interactive whiteboards and
desktop computers.
We have now spent $75,000 of our $200,000 on maintenance that really should be a given from the federal Govt for just general
upkeep of schools.
For $75,000 we had approx 8 rooms partially painted eg. Walls and not doors, ceilings only in some rooms and we had new
carpet in approx 4 rooms. $75,000 does not seem to go very far with the Dept of Ed.
We were originally given a figure of $3.2 million for the Primary Schools for the 21st Century, now it is only $3 mill. Where did
the other $200,000 go? We are the biggest school in the area and could really use the extra $200,000. Our Admin area is well
below the code of the Department, but that doesn't seem to be a priority for them.
The rules surrounding what schools can use the money on seems to change on a weekly basis.
We are very appreciative to get any money at all, but when our proposals are almost ignored and the school is told what their
options are, it looks very much like there is another agenda to this whole process.
The school is also worried about the exorbitant cost of smart boards. The price rise of the only supplier went
from $4,000 to $7,200. Why? The schools are a captive audience. It is outrageous, and the school wants to know
why, the Department of Commerce takes 23 per cent of the money to manage BER funding. The schools in my
electorate are jaded, despite this wonderful opportunity with funding. On the one hand they receive a raft of
money but on the other hand they cannot raise their concerns. They are trying to provide solutions and
suggestions but do not have the free will to do so. There are also safety concerns of the 500 schoolchildren who
arrive at 3.00 p.m. at Asquith Railway Station, which has lost its station manager. I call on the Government to
revisit these reviews. It is outrageous that so many children arrive at a station that has no station manager.
ST DAVID'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, WOY WOY
Ms MARIE ANDREWS (Gosford) [10.49 a.m.]: Today I take pride in informing the House that on
Saturday 16 May I had the great pleasure of attending a special service of celebration to commemorate the
centenary year 2009 of St David's Presbyterian Church in Blackwall Road, Woy Woy. The celebration began,
and I think quite aptly so, with the moderator of the Presbyterian Church, the Right Reverend Bruce Meller,
being piped into the newly-developed church by piper Mr Colin Briggs. Mrs Meller accompanied her husband
to the service and to special services held the following day.
The current minister of St David's at Woy Woy is the Reverend Ken Rathbone. He welcomed guests
and parishioners and was the master of ceremonies for this special service. Central Coast Presbytery moderator
Reverend Rex Swavley and Reverend John Webster, Reverend Norm Secombe and Reverend Jamie Newans,
former ministers of St David's, were also in attendance. They reflected upon how the church had had humble
beginnings over 100 years ago and also their experiences at St David's in years gone by. It was interesting to
hear of their experiences in the parish, and particularly interesting to know that, in the past, ministers operating
out of St David's in Woy Woy covered a lot of their area by motorboat. Many of the areas in St David's parish
are waterfront areas in the scenic Brisbane Water and therefore, in those days, it made sense for the areas to be
covered via motorboat—I might add that this was well before the bridge was built and it was far easier to access
those areas by water.
The celebrations were very lively indeed. There was much humour in the speeches and a number of
musical items helped to entertain us all. In particular I mention the musical item provided by Mrs Joanne
McMahon and her band. There were a number of hymns sung and the organist accompanying on the day was
Mrs Frances Vial, pianist Mrs Consuela Baxter and guest organist Mr Adam Ricciardone. The moderator, of
course, gave a lovely address and went over the history of the Presbyterian church in this State, and in particular
of course the history of the Presbyterian church at Woy Woy.
The centenary committee convenor, Mrs Lily Hanlon, also made a lovely address. The centenary
committee deserves special praise because they went to a great deal of trouble to make not only that service a
great success but other services held in and around that time to celebrate the centenary, which of course is a very
important occasion. I wish to place on record the names of the centenary committee members: Lily Hanlon, the
convenor, Alice Donaldson, Bev Elliott, Barbara Firth, Susan Harris, Reverend Angus Beaton, David Donaldson
and Jim Sutar. They also had the assistance of Diana McLeish.
I acknowledge Mr Keith Chapple, who has been the session clerk at St David's from 1986. He was
there with his good wife. Keith has developed a booklet celebrating the centenary and it is entitled the
"Centenary Celebration of 2009". I was privileged in 1996 to be a guest at the thanksgiving and communion
anniversary service at St David's to celebrate 90 years of Presbyterian worship at Woy Woy. The original
St David's church occupied a position in Charlton Street, Woy Woy, and in 1926 St David's moved to its current
location. The original building was constructed in 1909 and has been beautifully preserved, on which
I congratulate St David's.
VALLEY INDUSTRIES GROUP
Mr JOHN TURNER (Myall Lakes) [10.54 a.m.]: The Valley Industries Group assists the disabled in
my electorate in a magnificent way. It has been around for quite some time, having been formed in 1971. The
founder of Valley Industries is the late John Machin, the father of a minister in this Parliament, Wendy Machin.
The group has operated from that time with great success and dignity for disabled people in the area. It has now
grown into a huge organisation whose mission statement is: "To train, educate and further the interests and
acceptance of disabled people in our community and to promote their economic and social wellbeing." Murray
Relf is the current general manager of Valley Industries and it has been through the hard work of him and his
dedicated staff that we have seen the organisation grow to such a large extent.
I was there only a short period of time ago at an open day and it is quite obvious that the community of
the Manning Valley and the Great Lakes area strongly supports the Valley Industries Group in its activities,
which are many. The group has a base activity of providing timber products, such things as survey pegs, pallets
and the like, but it has expanded now to a nursery. I have to say it is quite an outstanding nursery with a wide
range of products and they propagate many of their own plants that are sold. There are landscaping materials on
offer as well. Employees provide a mowing service as well as a paver-making service. The group provides a
business and office service, taking records and shredding them, and it is even going into imaging and disk
replacement of written records.
Murray Relf told me that Valley Industries has recently very successfully opened a used furniture and
clothing section, which is going quite well. When I was there I had the opportunity to talk to the people who
were operating that section and they were very excited about their sales and the success of that activity.
Presently there are 45 staff members providing support services for more than 120 people with disabilities at this
organisation. Not only do they provide those hands-on items I just mentioned, but it is a whole-of-life
experience. For instance, under their community living skills program they constantly run training programs.
There is one that has just been run, which was aimed at teaching people to manage anger. That is to be followed
up with money management, protective behaviour and advocacy, with more to come as they move through the
year.
Murray Relf has told me that they have now been able to sign off on the supported employees
enterprise agreement, which I think was voted on by employees a couple of months ago and received a
resounding "Yes". Having the agreement in place is considered to be very much for the benefit of their
supported employees as it defines and guarantees their employment conditions. Mr Relf said that a couple of
months ago approval to be funded for an additional 12 employees was received, and after a concerted
promotional program all of those placements—plus some extras—were filled. This is excellent news for Valley
Industries. The dedication is there for everyone to see. When I moved through on open day, and at other times
that I have been there, I could feel the morale of the people working there, that it is a good environment and they
are happy to be there. The friendliness is quite astounding. Murray is Murray, and the employees respect him,
but they treat him as a friend as much as being the boss.
There is another section of Valley Industries, which is the Cooinda Personal Development and Activity
Centre, designed for disabled people with perhaps a little more need than those working in Valley Industries
itself. Having been through that organisation I have seen the tenderness and love that is given by the employees
to people in the Cooinda centre. To all those associated with Valley Industries, both employees and
management, I say thank you for a job well done in our community. You can hold your heads high in the
knowledge that you are giving something back to the community that we value greatly.
Mr BARRY COLLIER (Miranda—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.59 a.m.]: I thank the member for
Myall Lakes for drawing the attention of the House to the wonderful work being done by the Valley Industries
group, whether in timber products, nurseries, mowing services or business offices. It is a very diversified and
innovative group. He drew our attention particularly to the 45 staff serving those with disabilities and some of
the programs they are undertaking in the Manning Valley area. The member spoke about the dedication,
commitment and friendliness of the staff and referred particularly to Murray, who I gather is a local legend and
someone who is well respected in the community. I wish all involved with Valley Industries group all the best
and I am sure all members will join with me in doing so.
MAITLAND YOUTH FORUM
Mr FRANK TERENZINI (Maitland) [11.00 a.m.]: I advise members of my attendance on 28 May

this year at the Bradford Hotel Conference Centre on the New England Highway, Rutherford, where I had the
pleasure of opening one of the first youth forums in the Maitland area. The youth forum was organised by an
extremely hardworking employee of the Department of Education and Training and member of the teaching
profession at Rutherford Technology High School, Maryka Gibson. Ms Gibson is a tireless worker for our youth
and this is demonstrated by the fact that she organised the youth forum. It attracted students from a number of
high schools in the area—Francis Greenway High School, Hunter Valley Grammar School, Kurri Kurri High
School, Maitland Grossmann High School, Maitland High School, Rutherford Technology High School, and St
Mary's Campus, All Saints College, Maitland. Each of those schools was represented by about six year 12
students and a teacher.
There were also community representatives at the forum to show their interest in young people and
their future. They were: Deayne Bourke, from Maitland City Council; Sergeant Julie Perry, the police liaison
officer; Ralph Ward, Chairman of the Maitland Liquor Accord; and Jennifer Nicholls, President of the Maitland
Chamber of Commerce, and a representative of Alliance People Solutions, which is an organisation that trains
people and finds them work in the community. It also liaises with various stakeholders such as employers,
mining groups, TAFE and other training providers and brings them together to find work for people.
This forum was designed to bring together young people from the high schools and community leaders
to endeavour to find out the issues that affect young people. I was given the opportunity of opening this forum
and I made some remarks at the beginning of the session. I told the students how much it gladdened the heart of
a local member of Parliament to see efforts being made to bridge the gap between these two generations. I have
no doubt that today's generation is the most capable, confident and intelligent generation we have ever had.
Only last night on the news this generation was identified as generation Z. It is said to be a generation that
respects its parents, does not want to make a mess of their lives, wants to get on in life, work hard and build a
career, and look after a family—which I am told is different from the generation before it.
I think this generation will serve the community well. They are working hard at school and they are the
future mayors, members of Parliament, business people and community leaders. What better way to obtain
information from this generation and bridge the gap between the current and future community leaders than by
this forum? It was a fantastic idea. It was a very fruitful and information-productive session in which we were
able to get to the issues. I am referring to youth issues relating to mental health, crime, sporting and night venues
for young people, and others. The forum also sought to break down the barriers between the present generation
and people in authority such as police officers, council officers and all those leaders who help the community.
It was a very productive event and I thank all the community leaders who attended. I also thank Maryka
Gibson of Rutherford Technology High School for organising the event. I understand that there is talk of
another forum to follow up issues raised by the students. I have no doubt that with these sorts of events going on
in my electorate, and any other electorate, we will make strides in ensuring the decision-makers of tomorrow are
well equipped to call on the experience of today's decision-makers in taking on those positions of authority and
making sure we are properly led in future.
EASTWOOD RYDE NETBALL ASSOCIATION
Mr VICTOR DOMINELLO (Ryde) [11.05 a.m.]: I speak about the outstanding efforts of the
Eastwood Ryde Netball Association or ERNA. Eastwood Ryde is a New South Wales District Association with
over 3,500 members. ERNA has 30 clubs in which there are 359 teams registered in the Saturday competition.
They play at Brush Farm Park and Meadowbank Park. The association is celebrating 55 years of netball this
year. It is also celebrating outstanding achievements in the recent Netball NSW 2009 Holden State
Championships that were held on the June long weekend.
This year ERNA sent four teams to the Illawarra to contest the Netball NSW State Championships and
came back with two championship winners, a runner-up and a fifth place. The teams competed in the open
championship division, the 17s championship division, and masters divisions in the over-45s and the over-40s.
The open division team, coached by Marilyn Latham and managed by Judy Watts, was a combination of
Eastwood Ryde State League division 1 and division 2 teams. After 22 games over the three-day event, it was
fitting that the open team was given a guard of honour by the three other ERNA teams and their president as
they made their way to be crowned State open champions.
After overcoming major injuries to centre-court Kate Hanson and defender Nikki Clough, the team
dropped only one game against Charlestown to win the championship. They had to win all the 21 other games.
They had a hard-fought and exciting three-point win over Randwick and an impressive win against Penrith,
which set them up to take out the prestigious open division for the first time in approximately 20 years. Coach
Latham was very impressed by the girls' effort and performance and thrilled with the win. To top off the great
result, Jessica Calderara, Tiffany Normand and Laura McLaren were selected in the President's 12. This team is
selected by Netball NSW and is for players who are invaluable to their team's performance and show great
sportsmanship and exhibit the values of Netball NSW.
I record in Hansard for all to see the names of those in the open team: Jo Day, Sally Cain, Phil Craft,
Bec Keelan, Kate Hanson, Tiffany Normand, Ashleigh Normand, Claire Lower, Alex Mecham, Jessica
Calderera, Nikki Clough and Laura McLaren. The 17s team had 21 tough games and lost only two over the three
days, one to Sutherland and the other to the eventual winner, Newcastle. Coach Debra Hanson was very
impressed with her players, with all having outstanding performances. The team members were: manager
Charlene Sommerville, coach Debra Hanson, Lauren Salmon, Aimee Calderara, Amy Sommerville, Abby
Veverka, Hannah Jones, Sara Keelan, Emma Moses, Simone Pappas, Chelsea Ross, Angelica Triant, Courtney
Moore and Kelly Dalziel.
This was the inaugural year for the over-45 masters division in the Netball NSW Holden State
Championships. The team was led by coach Karen Alden (Waud) and manager Leanne Roberts. The "oldies"
had to fight their way through 16 games before meeting Wyong. The deciding game against Wyong was very
physical and closely contested, but ERNA came out fighting in the second half to win 18 to 12. ERNA's over-45
State champion team was: Karen Alden, coach; Leanne Roberts, player/manager, Katrina Doring, Donna
Clinch, Kylie Salmon, Sonya Sparre, Ruth Ross, Julia Yetsenga, Robyn Casey, Leigh Beauchamp and Kim
Randall.
The masters division over-40 team was led by Jenny Rosman, player/coach, Petrina Edgar,
player/manager, and players Danielle Campbell, Renee Bogg, Liz White, Kim Copping, Louise Kessell, Jodie
McLeod, AnneMaree Ironside, Lynda Calder. To come in fifth was a great result. The team had been working
on their fitness and training seriously for months. They were very unlucky to lose a couple of games by one and
two goals. This is a sensational result for the Ryde district and we are all very proud of their achievements.
This great news was brought to my attention in a recent email from Anne Doring that she signed off as
the "proud President of ERNA". When I read the sign off it brought a smile to my face. It is clear that Anne has
vibrant energy and a passion for ERNA and its members. ERNA and Ryde are fortunate to have Anne within
their midst. Anne has been president of ERNA for the past five years and has been a member since 1966—the
year before I was born. In particular, I pay tribute to Anne Doring for all her hard work. A speech about ERNA
would not be complete without acknowledging Neeta Matthews, OAM. Recently I had the privilege of meeting
Neeta at The Weekly Times Ryde sports awards presentation. Neeta is a wonderful life member of ERNA and is
also the evergreen patron of Netball New South Wales.
MISTAKEN IDENTITY LITIGATION
Mr MATTHEW MORRIS (Charlestown) [11.10 a.m.]: Today I wish to share with members a short
story about Mr Robert Mitrevski, a constituent of mine and a victim of mistaken identity. In early May he
approached my office and informed me of a matter before the Supreme Court, the subject of a writ served over
his investment property. Mr Mitrevski, through no fault of his own, was mistakenly identified by the Bakovski
family, which was taking legal action against another Robert Mitrevski who resided in Sydney and not in
Newcastle.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Mr Thomas George): Order! I am sure all members will find the speech of the
member for Charlestown interesting. He will be heard in silence.
Mr MATTHEW MORRIS: Mr Mitrevski found out about this matter when he approached his
financial institution seeking a loan for a motor vehicle and funding to complete upgrading work on his
investment property. At that time his bank manager advised him that a writ had been served on his property and
that he owed $3 million—that in itself is quite an interesting story. After becoming aware of the writ he was
involved in a subsequent legal case that ran over several weeks and that put a lot of stress on and incurred a lot
of heartache to him and his family. The Bakovski family was represented by Mr Bruce McDonald, who operates
from Macquarie Street in Sydney.
It appears from correspondence I have seen from Mr McDonald that the Bakovski family, through its
legal representative Mr McDonald, continued with the legal case in the full knowledge that Mr Mitrevski of
Charlestown was not the Mr Mitrevski in question. The Department of Lands, which originally provided land
titles information, advised me that it was not at fault in this matter and that the court needed to satisfy itself that
it had the correct parties involved before it. I do not think I will ever find out exactly where the fault lies in this
case but it demonstrates that an innocent party—any person in this State—can be dragged into court and
required to defend himself or herself or establish his or her true identity.
Mr Mitrevski has incurred legal expenses to the tune of $9,500, which he has paid through a personal
loan. He is now endeavouring to recover the costs. During the court case many affidavits, statutory declarations
and relevant pieces of documentation were put on the table and they clearly identified that Mr Mitrevski of
Charlestown was not the Mr Mitrevski in question. Even though all that information was provided, the
Bakovski's legal representative issued orders requiring Mr Mitrevski not to pursue costs as he had been excused
from the legal matter and the writ was removed from his property. It amazes me that this innocent person,
through no fault of his own, had his property and name identified by another party pursuing costs from
somebody else with the same name, was dragged into court and incurred significant legal expenses, and had to
deal with all the heartache, stress and difficulty that came with representing himself, and with employing a legal
representative.
Recently I wrote to the Attorney General seeking an ex gratia payment to cover Mr Mitrevski's costs.
Evidence is now available to clearly establish that Mr Mitrevski of Charlestown is the incorrect Mr Mitrevski
involved in this matter. I am endeavouring to ensure that Mr Mitrevski's legal costs are recovered, as he was an
innocent party. All members should be made aware of the fact that this could happen to anybody. Mr Mitrevski's
money should be recouped and we must ensure in the future that the system does not fail people such as
Mr Mitrevski.
Ms SONIA HORNERY (Wallsend—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.15 a.m.]: I commend the member

for Charlestown for attempting to clear the name of Mr Mitrevski, an innocent party in this unfortunate matter.
I also commend the member for Charlestown for attempting to recover Mr Mitrevski's funds and for his efforts
on behalf of Mr Mitrevski.
COFFS HARBOUR SHOWGROUND
Mr ANDREW FRASER (Coffs Harbour) [11.16 a.m.]: The Coffs Harbour Showground, one of the
oldest showgrounds on the North Coast, is recognised by many as one of the better maintained and utilised
showgrounds in New South Wales. A couple of years ago the Minister decided to sack the trust and to appoint
an administrator. I still question the cost of administration by an administrator versus the cost of management by
a local trust. Over this period the ability of local groups to utilise this showground has been severely diminished.
The administrator, appointed by the Government, has increased rents to such an extent that many groups such as
the Glenreagh steam railway group can no longer afford to utilise the showgrounds. Recently that group had to
vacate its showground accommodation because it could no longer afford to pay the adjusted rent.
This year a show was held at the showground. Last year we did not have a show because the society
could not afford to pay the rents or the levies. Unfortunately, this year's show was not nearly as well attended as
previous shows and the displays did not match the quality of the displays that we have seen in previous years.
However, I commend the show society for the great job it did this year under very trying circumstances. David
Moore, President of the Agricultural Societies Council of New South Wales Inc., wrote to me this week and
said:
We would like to express concern at the removal of Show ring fencing in front of the grandstand on Coffs Harbour Showground.
Apparently the fencing was deemed to be unsafe and therefore removed and there were no plans to replace it. This potentially
puts at risk spectators and competitors alike on the staging of events at the Coffs Harbour Agricultural Show.
The Show Society understood that it was hiring the ground complete with workable fences. At no stage was it indicated that they
would have to build the cost of hiring temporary fencing at a cost of about $3,212 into their meagre budget. This is an
occupational health and safety issue. Surely the Coffs Harbour Showground Trust—
trustee as there is only one person and not a trust generally—

have a duty of care to have a fence in place for public safety for all entertainment events held on the ground giving benefits to all
users.
The Agricultural Societies Council would appreciate a further inquiry into this matter to help ensure the safety of all patrons.
For many years I was a trustee of this showground. Before I got into politics I also had the lease to operate the
caravan park that adjoined the showground, and the majority of that income was poured into the showground. In
those days that income was expended to improve the showground by building a new pavilion, installing drains,
waterproofing the building, and constructing roads et cetera. This letter demonstrates that since the administrator
has taken control things have deteriorated. This parcel of land in the centre of Coffs Harbour is valuable. My
Machiavellian thoughts are that the Government would like to dispose of it or, alternatively, hand it to the
council, which could then give long leases to commercial developments and the community would lose the
amenity. This valuable piece of land should remain a showground and recreation reserve for the community.
The showground has operated for almost 100 years. As far as I am concerned this magnificent portion
of land is a wonderful piece of social infrastructure that gives shelter to koalas and other native animals. It is
utilised also by soccer clubs and the art group, and was used for the local Australian football league competition.
The pony club no longer uses the showground because of the current administration, which I believe gets its
instructions from the Government. I call on the Government to hand the administration and management of this
magnificent reserve back to the people of Coffs Harbour, back to independent trustees, to ensure that public
utilisation of this brilliant facility may continue and that the upgrade may continue as it did under a public trust.
It is totally unacceptable that the show society must fork out more than $3,000 each time it wants to use the
facilities. It is imperative that the Government stop playing politics with this piece of land and make sure it
returns to local public management.
STAY AWAKE ON THE PRINCES HIGHWAY CAMPAIGN
Ms LYLEA McMAHON (Shellharbour—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.21 a.m.]: On Wednesday

8 April I attended the official launch at Shellharbour City Council of the "Stay Awake on the Princes Highway"
campaign, a community road safety strategy. This launch attracted some very senior identities from various
local organisations and departments that included Paralympian gold medallist and project ambassador Brett
Stibners; General Manager, Shellharbour City Council, Brian Weir; administrator David Jessom; road safety
officer Jenny Davies; and Commander, Lake Illawarra Local Area Command, Superintendent Michael Willing.
Also joining us at the launch were Shellharbour City Council senior staff, road safety officers from all local
councils and police representatives from local and surrounding area commands.
The Stay Awake on the Princes Highway project was officially launched in Shellharbour city in 2005
under its former title, "Stay Fresh on the Princes Highway". Alarming statistics revealed that between 2002 and
2005, just prior to the launch of the campaign, there were a total of 14 fatigue-related crashes on the Princes
Highway: 78 per cent involved motor vehicle drivers, 36 per cent occurred between midnight and dawn,
65 per cent involved male drivers and 72 per cent were head-on crashes. A total of 36 per cent of all
fatigue-related crashes involved people from Sydney, Canberra or Victoria, reinforcing the need for people to
plan their trip and take regular breaks. Stay Fresh on the Princes Highway was designed to educate local and
visiting motorists to understand and heed the early signs of fatigue. A brochure highlighted all roadside rest
areas, including facilities available at each site between Wollongong and Eden.
To encourage the participation of motorists travelling on the Princes Highway the brochure also
doubled as a competition entry form, with prizes of a $500 fuel voucher and five "Fight Fatigue" packs. Stay
Fresh on the Princes Highway was designed to target both drivers and passengers to broaden the onus of
responsibility in recognising the signs of driver fatigue. The intention was to encourage drivers and passengers
to heed early warning signs such as yawning, tired or sore eyes, slow reactions, microsleeps and drowsiness, and
to understand the risks and consequences of driving while tired. In 2006 Stay Awake on the Princes Highway
introduced the late Kerryn McCann, marathon runner and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, as its first
project ambassador. Out of respect for Kerryn and her family, the project team decided it was appropriate to
change the name of the project and give it a new look.
Stay Awake on the Princes Highway was first launched in November 2008 and is targeted at motorists
using the Princes Highway. It is anticipated that more than 1,000 competition entries from visitors travelling
from all over New South Wales and interstate have been received already. Entry forms are available from one of
the many participating businesses or driver reviver sites along the Princes Highway. The entry forms were
designed to educate motorists about the signs of fatigue. In November the "Jake Stay Awake" character clock
was introduced—a timely message to remind motorists over the Christmas period to have a break from driving
when they felt the onset of fatigue.
We are now very fortunate to have local Paralympian and gold medallist Brett Stibners as the newly
endorsed project ambassador. Brett acquired his disability when he lost his left leg, and almost his life, in a
fatigue-related crash in 2001. Brett's plan in taking on this challenging new role as the project ambassador for
this campaign is to draw on his own experiences to alert motorists to the early signs of drowsiness in the hope
that they will stop, revive and survive. Sadly, Brett did not respond to the fatigue-related warning sign, which
occurred relatively close to his home at 11.30 a.m. on a Tuesday morning.
The Stay Awake on the Princes Highway campaign is a joint initiative of Shellharbour, Wollongong,
Kiama, Shoalhaven and Eurobodalla councils and local businesses. Several driver reviver sites operate along the
Princes Highway for the benefit of families travelling up and down the South Coast. These driver reviver sites
are operated by thousands of dedicated volunteers from organisations such as the Volunteer Rescue Association,
State Emergency Service and Lions Club International. I am pleased to say that this project also is supported by
the highway patrol within their local area commands, the Illawarra Road Safety Group, and the Roads and
Traffic Authority. I particularly acknowledge Jenny Davies, Shellharbour City Council Road Safety Officer,
who has been instrumental in supporting and organising this campaign and coordinating the various groups. Her
work has been of the highest possible standard. She is a very professional officer. Over its life the project has
been supported by all groups and various local councils demonstrating the ability of all people to work
cooperatively to take this issue seriously.
CHRISTIAN CITY CHURCH RAINBOW ROOM
Ms GLADYS BEREJIKLIAN (Willoughby) [11.26 a.m.]: I am pleased to advise the House that in
Chatswood, which is in the Willoughby electorate, I have a wonderful facility called the Rainbow Room, which
is part of the Christian City Church. This facility helps many families on the lower North Shore who look after
very sick children. Recently I visited the Rainbow Room with the Leader of the Opposition, Barry O'Farrell.
The member for Hornsby has also visited the Rainbow Room and keeps in contact with those who established it
and operate it. Jane Frick founded the Rainbow Room in September 2004 after watching her sister go through a
traumatic time with her daughter, Alysha, who underwent major surgery for a rare genetic condition. Jane
realised the stress these experiences placed on families and partners. Her vision was to help families in those
traumatic times and, consequently, the Rainbow Room was opened in the hope of extending assistance to
families who felt isolated whilst coping with a child with a rare disorder, disability or chronic illness. The
Rainbow Room also helps mums with postnatal depression and those with a special need.
With the support of ShoreCare, Jane and her team of dedicated volunteers aim to offer services that will
provide comfort to families and carers during their unfortunate time of isolation and frustration. I was impressed
to see the many services offered to mums, dads and children. For example, mums are able to relax and enjoy
things such as a massage, a facial, and a manicure and pedicure in a caring and loving environment. Normally
these mums do not have the time for such luxuries. While mums are being pampered their children are under the
watchful eye of special carers in the RainbowRoom, so the mums can relax without feeling guilty. This fantastic
room is painted brightly and has toys, puzzles and many activities for the children, as well as music in the
background. Services are also provided for dads who might need respite so that they can enjoy a relaxing time in
the Rainbow Room.
Too often parents looking after very sick children, or going through difficult times, do not have the
respite or extra resources they need to take care of themselves. The Rainbow Room provides that service to the
broader community. I was pleased also to learn that the Rainbow Room has received much acclaim from local
organisations. The North Shore Times gave the Rainbow Room a special community service award and the
North Sydney Leagues Club also gave it a special award. I feel very lucky that such a facility is available to my
community. I know that many members of the House have been able to refer people in need to the Rainbow
Room. I take this opportunity to read some testimonials from parents on the facility. One person says:
Jane, thank you so much for spoiling us at Christmas. Our children really love their presents and we were really touched and
overwhelmed by it all.
Wishing you all the best for 2009 and looking forward to seeing you soon at the Rainbow Room …
Another testimonial states:

Dear Jane,
Please can you thank everyone who is involved with the wonderful hamper we received.
We are overwhelmed with the message of kindness and love it portrayed. Your treasure is a true testament to the love of God and
his outreach to the community.
Wishing you and your family a peaceful and relaxing Christmas …
The Rainbow Room has assisted, and will continue to assist, so many people and families that it now is an
important place of referral. It reminds us how fortunate we are that we have time on our hands to take care of
ourselves. So many people are looking after loved ones and very sick children, who require high levels of
attention and care, but they do not have time to relax and enjoy some respite. It is fantastic to know that such a
safe place exists and offers all the wonderful services I have described. As I have said, the Rainbow Room has
also become a place of referral. Many different organisations are able to refer parents and families in need to the
Rainbow Room. The kids and parents are taken care of in a fantastic manner.
I congratulate everybody associated with the Rainbow Room, particularly all the volunteers. Some of
the volunteers I met on the day of my visit included retired doctors, retired nurses, teachers and people who had
had very successful careers but who are now freely giving up a day of their week to provide assistance to
families in need. It was wonderful to see. I congratulate everybody associated with the Rainbow Room, and
thank them for the fantastic their work they do for the community and for families in need.
LOW-INCOME EARNER LOANS
Mr GERARD MARTIN (Bathurst) [11.31 p.m.]: Today I draw to the attention of the House the No
Interest Loan Scheme, particularly its impact on the Central West. The Josephite Foundation, which is a branch
of the Sisters of Mercy at Perthville via Bathurst, has operated the scheme since 1999. Yesterday in the House,
the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts, the Hon.
Virginia Judge, announced that almost $70,000 in additional funding would be made available to the Josephite
Foundation to enable the foundation to carry on its very worthy works, particularly for people at the lower end
of the economic scale, and sometimes for those at the lower end of the social scale, who need the money.
Currently the foundation provides no interest loans to people living in a large part of the Central West
in areas that are part of my electorate such as Bathurst, Oberon, Blayney, Carcoar, Mandurama, Lyndhurst,
Lithgow, Portland and Wallerawang. The funding will enable the foundation to expand its work further into the
Central West and enable the foundation to help families to keep their heads above water during these tough
economic times. The No Interest Loan Scheme provides low-income earners with access to loans from the
National Australia Bank of up to $1,200 for essential household and medical goods and services. Although at
the moment banks are not receiving very many bouquets from the community, I pay tribute to the National
Australia Bank for its support of this very worthy project.
Through the recent budget, the State Government has added a $6.6 million funding boost for financial
support services such as the No Interest Loan Scheme. The New South Wales Government has also committed a
total of $20 million to financial counselling services and No Interest Loan Schemes over the next three years. It
is probably a sad indictment of society that such schemes are needed; the Josephite Foundation is Christianity
with its sleeves rolled up. The foundation is deeply involved in doing something to make a difference to the
lives of people in need. Over the past few years the Josephite Foundation in Perthville has had ongoing
communication with me, and through me, to the Minister's office. A big breakthrough came in the past couple of
years when the Hon. Linda Burney was the Minister for Fair Trading and made major changes to allow the
scheme to be expanded statewide. The Government provided funding to support proper administrative services
associated with the schemes.
The Government's aim is to have the No Interest Loan Scheme spread as widely as is possible
throughout the State. The Josephite Foundation is a wonderful example of the way in which the scheme works.
The foundation is among pioneers of the scheme. It commenced with $10,000 that was put on the table, and that
got the scheme up and running. The foundation has been able to turn over that amount many times in a very
effective use of the money. The interesting point about the foundation is that it has a 98 per cent success rate of
people repaying the loans. People who take out the loans usually are single mothers and people who receive
fixed or very low incomes. Repayment is approximately $20 a month, but being able to secure a loan allows
people in need to obtain essential services that make a massive difference to their lives, and in particular to the
lives of their children. It is a very effective banking tool. Given the record of the banking industry in recent
years, it is probably appropriate to reflect on some of these simple and laudable processes.
I pay tribute to some people who support the Josephite Foundation. The current driving force of the
foundation is Margaret Jones, the executive officer, who is based in Bathurst. Margaret has worked tirelessly to
have the fund underpinned and to have its influence spread as far and wide as is possible. Mimi O'Reilly, who
has been very involved in community work in Bathurst in recent years, particularly concerning domestic
violence, is chair of the committee. I pay tribute also to Mark Worthington, who is a local solicitor and who also
has worked with the foundation.
In recent times the group has been lobbying strongly for financial assistance. Obviously, judging by the
Minister's decision yesterday, their lobbying has been very successful. The group met the Minister when she
was last in Bathurst for a community Cabinet meeting. They had met me some weeks before to formulate a
submission. Yesterday's announcement by the Minister that an additional $70,000 would be allocated to the
Josephite Foundation was the culmination of the group's successful lobbying. I pay tribute to the Sisters of
St Joseph and all who are involved with the Josephite Foundation for the excellent job they are doing with the
No Interest Loan Scheme.
NORTHERN BEACHES HOSPITALS
Mr BRAD HAZZARD (Wakehurst) [11.36 a.m.]: I express concern on behalf of northern beaches
residents at the continuing reluctance of the Minister for Health in any way to engage either with the
professional medical staff of the northern beaches or residents regarding their health and hospital needs. I well
remember, as I am sure most members would, that wonderful Yes Minister episode that put forward the concept
of hospitals running far better when they do not have any patients. The Minister for Health, the Hon. John Della
Bosca, has taken that concept to a new level: he has worked out that if the hospital does not exist, no-one has to
worry about patients or services at all!
The problem is that the people of the northern beaches have been promised by a succession of
Ministers for Health that a new hospital would be provided for the northern beaches. Residents of the northern
beaches are entitled to have first-class hospital services and first-class hospital facilities to provide those
services. Recently the Minister for Health was quoted as saying that there are two hospitals on the northern
beaches, one at Manly and one at Narrabeen. Of course, that is utter rot. For many years the hospitals have been
located at Manly and Mona Vale. An example that shows the utter disregard of the Minister for Health for, and
his ignorance of, the northern beaches community on many levels is the Minister's attitude to an invitation to
attend the Mona Vale Hospital on 28 April this year to talk about the Garling inquiry, meet professional staff
and express the intent of the Government. At the last minute, he cancelled.
If it had been any other Minister for Health, we could have accepted that there might have been a bona
fide reason for his non-appearance, but the behaviour of the current Minister for Health is not credible.
I acknowledge that he sent in his place the member for Macquarie Fields, Dr McDonald, who is present in the
Chamber and is looking very agitated and excited. The people who attended that meeting report that the member
for Macquarie Fields is a nice fellow: he listened and he spoke well, but he obviously does not have much of a
relationship with the Minister for Health, the Hon. John Della Bosca, other than shortly perhaps to fawn over
him in response to my comments.
The member for Macquarie Fields did not go back and tell the Minister, "Hey, the hospital is actually at
Mona Vale and not Narrabeen." Adequate communication is not happening. I ask the member for Macquarie
Fields to state for the record what he told the Minister for Health about the need for the Government to make a
commitment to northern beaches residents about a hospital in the northern beaches area. The current Minister
for Health's credibility must be seriously questioned. The Minister's wife, Belinda Neal, is a former member of
the Senate.
Mr Robert Furolo: Point of order: Private members' statements are an opportunity for members to talk
about their electorates, not the health Minister and his wife.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Ms Diane Beamer): Order! I am sure the member for Wakehurst understands
the standing orders in relation to private members' statements. I am sure he would not make an attack on
someone outside this Chamber other than by way of substantive motion.
Mr BRAD HAZZARD: As I said, the Minister's wife is a former Senator. This is not an attack: it is an
observation. She had an office 100 metres from my office in Dee Why. The next suburb but one is Narrabeen.
Surely Mr Della Bosca, when he had his licence, drove back and forth to the northern beaches with his wife at
some point and knows that Mona Vale Hospital is a few kilometres north. Services at Mona Vale Hospital need
to be upgraded. I acknowledge that modest upgrades have been made at Mona Vale Hospital recently.
I acknowledge also that work on accident and emergency and the dialysis unit has finally come to fruition, and
I thank the Minister for that. However, a much bigger issue is the combined facilities offered by Manly Hospital
and Mona Vale Hospital.
The plans for redeveloping Royal North Shore Hospital were predicated on the fact that there would be
a new hospital on the northern beaches at Frenchs Forest. In my time in this place I have met with a number of
senior Labor Ministers, including every former health Minister, and all of them indicated that a new hospital
would be built. Indeed, one of them told me that Manly Hospital had the worst facilities he had ever visited.
They all acknowledged that the staff at both hospitals are first class, and I also acknowledge that. But, as
evidenced by Dr Stephen Nolan's comments on the front page of the Manly Daily yesterday, the staff have had it
with this Government. I call on the Minister to get on with the job and deliver new hospital facilities on the
northern beaches.
Dr ANDREW McDONALD (Macquarie Fields—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.41 a.m.]: The Minister

for Health has spoken to me about his temporary attack of nominal aphasia when referring to the hospital that he
knows full well is at Mona Vale. Nominal aphasia is a technical term for the difficulty in finding proper names,
which is common to all human beings—especially when they are being interviewed on the radio. The Minister
well knows the cause of his difficulty with finding proper names.
Mr Brad Hazzard: Point of order: The member for Macquarie Fields is a decent human being. If he
uses a medical term I simply ask him to spell it for Hansard. Also, the purpose of a member's response is to
respond to the issues I raised.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Ms Diane Beamer): Order! There is no point of order. I am sure the member
for Macquarie Fields will give the spelling to Hansard.
Dr ANDREW McDONALD: The Minister knows full well where Mona Vale Hospital is and wishes
to place on record his high regard for the staff there. I also place on record my high regard for the staff at Mona
Vale Hospital. I greatly enjoyed my day representing the Minister during the swine flu crisis, which is the
reason the Minister was unable to attend. Again, I pay tribute to the wonderful medical, nursing and allied health
staff whom I met that day.
Mr Brad Hazzard: Point of order: The Parliamentary Secretary said he would respond to my request
for additional facilities on the northern beaches, but he has not said a word about that.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Ms Diane Beamer): Order! There is no point of order. I cannot direct the
Parliamentary Secretary to respond to the member in a particular way.
TRIBUTE TO JOSHUA LAWRENCE
Dr ANDREW McDONALD (Macquarie Fields—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.43 a.m.]: I report the

sad death of Joshua Lawrence. Joshua died on 31 March 2009, aged 18½ years. He was the much-loved son of
Eileen and Rodney Lawrence. He will always live in the hearts and memories of all who knew him, and he
made this world a better place simply by being Joshua. Joshua had a severe developmental disability and lived
much of his life on the mid North Coast. I was his doctor for the last two years of his life. Joshua was a loving
son who was much loved by his family and by the many workers from the Junction Works at Austral who
worked with him. His caseworker was Wendy Horspool, and at the service at Frank Calabro Hall in my
electorate Maree Mullens, the chief executive officer of the Junction Works, spoke of their great loss of Josh.
Maree read some of the words from Kevin Carmody's "Eulogy". I will record some of those words in Hansard
in Joshua's memory:
Lay me down in the sacred ground

Keep me from the cold
Keep me in the deep warm Earth
Where the stars can see my soul
Take me where them trees stand tall
By the waters in the river bend

Let me face the rising sun
Commend my spirit to the wind
Make no monuments or mortal crowns
Or speak my name again when you lay me down
Michelle Woodall, another caseworker, remembered Joshua fondly. She spoke of an affectionate, loving young
man who would greet everyone with a hug and a big kiss if you were not quick enough. His face would light up
when he did activities such as boomerang throwing, bike riding, going to the beach or watching the big trucks
race around Oran Park. Before he died Joshua saw the dolphins. As Michelle said:
I am fortunate to have so many beautiful memories of a young man that made this world a better place … Joshua will be in our
hearts forever.
Eileen, his loving mother, is heartbroken by his death. She has been a rock, looking after Joshua with his very
high care needs for all of his life. Eileen Lawrence is one of the bravest and most decent people I have ever met.
Joshua's older brother, Rodney, is also severely developmentally disabled and was saddened by the death of his
much-loved brother. Joshua was buried in Kempsey. Eulogies in this place are often for the great and the good,
yet as a society we are judged by how we try to help those in greatest need. I am sure all members would agree
that Joshua Lawrence's short life and tragic death deserve to be remembered in the Hansard of the Parliament of
New South Wales. Joshua's death reminds all of us in this place of the love that people with disabilities bring to
those around them. We are all richer for his presence, and I hope there will come a day when he is able to meet
his family again in another life without his disability. I pay tribute to Joshua. I pass on to his family and his
carers my sincere condolences on his death. His memory will live on. May he rest in blessed peace.
ALL SAINTS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELMORE
Mr ROBERT FUROLO (Lakemba) [11.47 a.m.]: Today I will share some good news about the
electorate of Lakemba. All members are proud of the communities they represent. A fundamental feature of all
our communities is the wonderful schools that educate our young people. Last night a newly constructed school
in the Lakemba electorate was awarded the Sulman Award for Public Architecture in New South Wales. This
highly prestigious award was presented to All Saints Grammar School in Belmore, which is run by the Greek
Orthodox Church of Belmore. The Sulman Award was presented to the architect, Mr Angelo Candalepas, for
designing this wonderful public building. The students of All Saints Grammar School at Belmore are thrilled to
be learning in such a wonderful environment.
I am congratulating the architect and the church on the construction of this new school because
neighbouring residents expressed concern about the construction of the school when the project was lodged with
the council. Indeed, they went so far as to challenge the council's decision when it approved the application
some years ago. On a technicality the residents' appeal was upheld; council subsequently re-approved the
project. I am pleased to say that as a result of council's decision the building has now been recognised for its
wonderful architecture as a public domain and for the quality of education it will afford the students who learn
there. I am pleased that a school in the Lakemba electorate has been recognised in the New South Wales
architecture awards, winning the Sulman Award for Public Architecture. I congratulate the Greek Orthodox
Church of Belmore and the architect, Angelo Candalepas of Candalepas Associates.
Ms SONIA HORNERY (Wallsend—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.50 a.m.]: I congratulate All Saints

Grammar School on its wonderful newly constructed building, which looks fantastic and will be great for its
students. It is great feat for the architect of the school to receive the New South Wales architecture award.
LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL
Mr THOMAS GEORGE (Lismore) [11.51 a.m.]: I am very disappointed that Tuesday's budget did
not allocate funding for the stage three development of Lismore Base Hospital. I was also disappointed that
Murwillumbah Hospital did not attract further funding not only for its current services but also for an extension
of services—about which I will comment next week. During my 10 years as the local member I have worked
with former health Ministers such as the Hon. Craig Knowles, whose then senior adviser is now our Premier.
I remember when former Parliamentary Secretary Cherie Burton and I travelled to Lismore to address a
community meeting about future plans for Lismore's health services, and Lismore Base Hospital in particular.
The former Minister for Health, Morris Iemma—a former Premier—also visited Lismore, together with the
Hon. Craig Knowles and Cherie Burton, to discuss the need to upgrade Lismore hospital.
When the Attorney General, the Hon. John Hatzistergos, was Minister for Health, he and I attended a
briefing by Mr Chris Crawford, Chief Executive Officer, Northern Rivers Area Health Service—which is now
known as the North Coast Area Health Service—about the development of stage three of the hospital. We were
shown the magnificent plans, and the need for the new facilities was subsequently emphasised to the next
Minister for Health, the Hon. Reba Meagher, and to the current Minister for Health. The stage one development
of Lismore hospital—the provision of the Mental Health Unit, which includes beds for children and
adolescents—was greatly appreciated by the community. The Minister Assisting the Minister for Health
(Cancer), Ms Jodi McKay, and I recently visited Lismore hospital, where I had the pleasure of turning the sod
for the integrated cancer unit. The work is well and truly underway and is expected to be completed next year.
The community always believed that the stage three development would proceed next. However, it is
not in the current budget. The additional funds may be allocated under the "Various" category, but Mr Crawford
recently gave the impression on radio that no extra money had been allocated to the stage three development.
The buildings at Lismore Base Hospital are a disgrace, and one can see that stage three is needed desperately.
Recently a lady whose husband was a patient at the hospital approached me. Hospital staff were busy so she was
giving her husband extra support. She told me that she had to walk up the stairs because the hospital's lifts were
not working. Lismore Base Hospital is the hospital for the Northern Rivers area that we are forcing more
patients from outlying areas to attend. However, the hospital does not have the facilities to cope with the extra
workload, which is a major concern. I thank hospital staff who do a magnificent job under extremely difficult
conditions. I will continue to pursue the stage three development of Lismore Base Hospital.
WORLDSKILLS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION
Ms SONIA HORNERY (Wallsend—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.56 a.m.]: Have you ever wanted to
flaunt your skills? Have you ever wanted to represent your country? Have you ever been dedicated, passionate
and young? Are you 23 or under, and enrolled in TAFE? Well, three out of four is not bad! It gives me great
pleasure to update this House on the status of some of our home-grown, best of the best, talented, young
tradespeople. The WorldSkills Australia team was officially announced last November. WorldSkills
competitions are a high-profile event, promoting Australia's skills excellence nationally and internationally. The
opportunity to compete is open to all Australian apprentices, trainees and vocational education and training
students and, if eligible, medallists can compete on the international stage in the Skills Olympics.
Twenty-six of Australia's medal-winning skills and trade champions have been endearingly branded the
"Skillaroos". I am delighted to inform the House that 18 of our Skillaroos are from New South Wales. Members
might remember that the Australian team of Skillaroos ranked fifth in the last WorldSkills International
Competition in Japan in 2007. They achieved that result competing against 50 other countries. These young
Australian men and women are now one step closer to realising their dream of representing their country on the
world stage. The Australian competitors have been working tirelessly over the past 18 months to improve the
fifth ranking whilst increasing the level of their skills and trade. The WorldSkills competition also showcases
the commitment of the Government to ensure a sustainable future for the workforce and to profile the
Government's promise on addressing the skills shortage.
Embarking on their quest for gold, the 26 competitors will compete at the fortieth WorldSkills
International Competition in Calgary, Canada, from 1 to 7 September 2009. These young Australians are
genuine role models in our community. Their achievements and success in life are a tribute to their hard work,
dedication and passion for excellence. Team Australia, labelled the Skillaroos, are 26 of the country's
medal-winning skills and trade champions and are set to test their abilities against the best in the world in
Calgary. On 20 May I was delighted to attend a mock competition held locally that was designed to sharpen the
skills of our 26 Skillaroos and give them a taste of, and a feel for, what the competition will be like in Calgary at
the end of the year. The competition was observed by local school students, who then had the opportunity to try
a trade, under the watchful eye of the trades and skills experts. This event was very important as it marked
100 days to go until the competition kicks off in Calgary.
Members may remember me informing this House about Justin Laidlaw, who attends Glendale TAFE
campus in my electorate. To recap, Justin won a gold medal in the vehicle-painting category after competing at
the WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Sydney as part of the 140-strong New South Wales team.
Justin showed a tremendous level of commitment and excellence. He is a marvellous ambassador for the
Glendale TAFE campus and I know that Justin's success has inspired his fellow students. Justin is now
enhancing his skills under the expert help of Brian Johnson. Brian has been with the WorldSkills community for
20 years as a regional and national judge, convenor and international expert for five competitions. He is a
vehicle-painting teacher at the Hunter Institute of Technology. One of Brian's aims is to help Justin achieve the
most he can during and well after the competition.
He believes that not everyone is challenged within their workplace and all young people, their
employers and industry would benefit from competitions where skills excellence is encouraged. We all look
forward to watching the Skillaroos progress and I know that every member of this House would want to send
their very best wishes for success, whether it be gold, bronze, silver or other performances, to our competitors
and to let them know how proud we are of their achievements and their passion to succeed, representing their
country. I know that this House would want to also send its best wishes to Brian Johnson and all the teachers
and experts involved in the WorldSkills Australia competition. I look forward to updating the House once again
with results from our triumphant skills and trades competitors in September 2009.
ACTING-SPEAKER (Ms Diane Beamer): Order! With the concurrence of the House, I will allow
members to continue making private members' statements.
DAVIDSON ELECTORATE HISTORY
Mr JONATHAN O'DEA (Davidson) [12.01 p.m.]: I speak today on the history of the Davidson
electorate and some of its important historic personalities, particularly Sir Walter Davidson. In April 1788
Governor Phillip set off from Sydney Cove in search of desperately needed farmland as the new colony was
short of food. These were the days when all government property, including convicts, was marked with the
English sixteenth century broad arrow symbol. The Governor travelled by boat to Manly, across Manly lagoon
and up Curl Curl Creek to the present day Forestville. He then went down to Middle Harbour at approximately
the site of Roseville Bridge and headed up Middle Harbour to his second camp at Bungaroo where a rock bar is
located today. At this point saltwater laps the lower side of the rocks and freshwater comes down the creek,
through the Garigal National Park on the upper side of the rocks. It is still possible to visit this rock bar in the
electorate of Davidson and stand where the Governor stood 121 years ago.
The electorate of Davidson was created in 1971 and covered an area of the northern peninsula of
Sydney. The first member was Richard Healey, who served as the member for Wakehurst from 1962 and then as
member for Davidson from 1971 to 1981. The Hon. Richard Healey was Minister for Youth and Community
Services and Minister for Health in the Askin Governments. The next member for Davidson from 1981 to 1992
was Terry Metherell, who is well remembered as Minister for Education and Youth Affairs for two years in the
Greiner Government. Terry lives on the northern beaches and is now involved in the Manly, Warringah and
Pittwater Historical Society. From 1992 to 2007 Andrew Humpherson was the member for Davidson and served
for some years as a shadow Minister. He still lives on the northern peninsula and now works for the Australian
Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation at Lucas Heights.
Originally the Davidson electorate was located entirely in the Warringah council area. Today
approximately one-third of Davidson constituents live in the Warringah council area and two-thirds in the
Ku-ring-gai council area. Although the electoral commissioners try to keep electorates as united as possible, the
distinct parts of the present electorate are one of its features. The Ku-ring-gai council areas of Roseville,
Lindfield, Killara, Gordon, Pymble, Turramurra and St Ives are separated by the Garigal National Park and
Middle Harbour Creek from the Warringah council areas of Forestville, Frenchs Forest, Belrose, Davidson and
the semi-rural Oxford Falls, sloping down to the Narrabeen lagoon.
The New South Wales Electoral Commission advises that when a new electorate is created, they pick a
local name in use. In 1970 they picked the name of a prominent suburb in the area, Davidson. However, from
where did the suburb of Davidson get its name? Sir Walter Davidson was Governor of New South Wales from
1917 to 1923. He was born in Malta in 1859 and educated at Oxford and Cambridge universities. After this he
was a member of the Ceylon Civil Service, Mayor of Colombo, Colonial Secretary of the Transvaal, and then
Governor of the Seychelles Islands and later Newfoundland. In September 1917 he was appointed Governor of
New South Wales and arrived in the colony to the adoration of thousands lining the streets of Sydney. He was
described on arrival as being over six feet tall and having an "almost pronounced military air". Sir Walter was
described as having an "impeccable constitutional instinct and political impartiality" in dealing with affairs of
state. He was active in the community and dedicated many First World War memorials that are with us today.
His wife, Lady Margaret, was active in the community in her own right.
Sadly, Sir Walter died in office in 1923. After a funeral with thousands again lining the streets of
Sydney he was buried at South Head Cemetery. His elaborate grave, paid for by public subscription, can be seen
just inside the main gates of South Head Cemetery today. After Sir Walter's passing, a number of places on the
North Shore were named after him and his wife. These include Davidson Park at Roseville Bridge, Lady
Davidson Home at Turramurra and the suburb of Davidson. So it appears that the electoral commissioners
picked a convenient existing suburb name in the area, perhaps without fully realising its significance to the early
years of Federation.
Today we should not forget the service of the convicts wearing the broad arrow symbol in the early
days of the colony, nor of Sir Walter Davidson, a great colonial civil servant from the early days of the
Federation of Australia. In 2009 we still have in our community visible reminders of the service and work of all
these people. They include this Parliament House, built by convicts, the war memorials throughout New South
Wales and Sir Walter's publicly subscribed memorial. I am sure if we looked hard enough in the front section of
this Parliament House some broad arrows would still remain.
GLENN MCGRATH STATUE, NARROMINE
Mrs DAWN FARDELL (Dubbo) [12.06 p.m.]: On Saturday 6 June Narromine celebrated the
unveiling of the Glenn McGrath statue situated in Tom Perry Park on the Mitchell Highway. Glenn Donald
McGrath, AM, was born on 9 February 1970 in Dubbo to Kevin and Beverly McGrath. He was nicknamed
"Pigeon" and he was educated at Narromine public schools. As a youngster he used to bowl at a fuel drum that
sat against his dad's machinery shed in Narromine to improve his accuracy. He is a former Australian cricket
player and a leading contributor to Australia's domination of world cricket from the mid 1990s to the early
twenty-first century. He holds the world record for the highest number of Test wickets by a fast bowler and is
fourth on the all time list.
Glenn announced his retirement from Test cricket on 23 December 2006. His Test career came to an
end after the Fifth Ashes Test in Sydney whilst the 2007 World Cup marked the end of his one-day cricket
career. Glenn owns a 13,000-plus hectare property west of Bourke, managed by his brother, which runs sheep
and cattle. Glenn and his wife, Jane, established the McGrath Foundation after she was diagnosed with breast
cancer in 1997. In 2008 Glenn and his wife, Jane, were appointed Members of the Order of Australia in
Australia Day honours for their services to the community through the McGrath Foundation. In 2008 the charity
had raised more than $3 million to fund dedicated nurses to care for breast cancer patients. Glenn McGrath is
the owner of New South Wales' first hot pink number plates launched by the Roads and Traffic Authority in an
initiative to raise funds for women diagnosed with breast cancer.
This is only a brief resumé of Glenn's wonderful achievements, which initiated discussion two years
ago between the mayor of Narromine, councillor Dawn Collins, and her general manager at the time, Paul
Bennett. Dawn and Paul wished to honour Glenn McGrath by commissioning a statue to show their appreciation
and recognition of this fine Australian and his family ties with the Narromine community. The issue was raised
in the community and I was approached for any possible avenues of funding. As with any fundraising, it was not
easy. However, by early this year definite commitments had been made and it was a goer. The final outcome
was that there was no cost to the ratepayers and lobbying to the Premier of New South Wales Nathan Rees as
Minister for Arts for financial assistance. At the Dubbo police station official opening a "Dawn attack" was
made by Dawn Collins and me and the Premier agreed to fund $35,000 if this figure was raised by the
community.
The official opening on 6 June was compered by Bob Walsh and attended by the McGrath family, most
importantly Glenn and his beautiful children, James and Holly, his mother, Beverly, his father, Kevin, and his
wife, Beverley. Following a week of miserable cold weather, it was a perfect sunny day for a tremendous event
to celebrate Glenn's community, humanitarian and sporting achievements. Full credit must go to Mayor Dawn
Collins for her efforts. The Narromine community also warmly welcomed the Premier of New South Wales,
Nathan Rees, and his wife, Tracy, who travelled to the event and the Premier honoured his commitment.
Following speeches by Mayor Dawn Collins, Premier Rees, Glenn McGrath and me, the statue was
unveiled by the Premier and me. The Premier also received a gift of a miniature of the statue, and the sculptor
Brett Garling is producing a number of others for sale. They are a magnificent piece of work to be valued
always. Full credit to the artist Brett Garling from Wongarbon via Dubbo for the wonderful piece now placed in
Tom Perry Park for all to admire and for his donation of the sculpture at a very discounted price. The large
gathering of the community also included residents from Dubbo, Parkes, Forbes, and a couple with caravan in
tow travelling the Newell Highway to Tamworth decided to detour to Narromine following a community
announcement on the radio regarding the event. The statue has proudly displayed the list of many sponsors who
made it all possible and the first couple of people to climb the statue and have their photo taken were Glenn and
Jane's children, James and Holly.
Glenn had kindly offered to be available to the public later on and at last report he started at 1.30 p.m.
and remained until at least 5.00 p.m. as word spread around the district that the great Glenn McGrath was home.
He was available for autographs and photographs for all, from former schoolteachers such as Hope Hardy from
Singleton to 11-year-old James Riley from Dubbo and children of all ages, from one year to 81 years. It was a
wonderful experience and a tribute from the Narromine community. How fortunate we all are to have a
champion in our midst.
CARINGBAH CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
Mr MALCOLM KERR (Cronulla) [12.11 p.m.]: I speak about the future of the central business
district at Caringbah. Before doing so I join with the member for Dubbo in recognising the achievements of
Glenn McGrath, who now makes his home in Cronulla. Recently Caringbah Oval was renamed Glenn McGrath
Oval to recognise his achievements. The future of the central business district of Caringbah is a matter of great
concern. Caringbah no longer has the advantages it enjoyed in the post-war period in relation to retailing and
other aspects of a central business district. It is time the council looked at Caringbah because there are a number
of issues that need to be addressed.
First and foremost is parking. It was interesting that a number of residents in the Sutherland shire
received a letter from Sutherland council, dated 5 June 2009, stating that council resolved at its meeting on
28 July 2008 to place on exhibition an environmental plan. Part of the amendment deals with the reclassification
of certain parcels of council land. It lists a number of parking areas: Flora Street Car Park, Jannali Car Park,
Kirrawee Car Park, Gymea Car Park, Banksia Road Car Park, Hay Avenue Car Park, Binalong Avenue,
Caringbah, and the development control strip at Engadine. A comprehensive strategy is required for car parking
in the Sutherland shire, in particular in Caringbah. As members would be aware, there was a very influential
British report relating to transport policy and I am sure they would all agree with the following statement from
that report:
It is impossible to spend any time on the study of the future of traffic in towns without at once being appalled by the magnitude
of the emergency that is coming upon us. We are nourishing at immense cost a monster of great potential destructiveness, and yet
we love him dearly. To refuse to accept the challenge it presents would be an act of defeatism.
That report compared the impact of the motor car to a juggernaut, which, it said:
… given its head, would wreck our towns within a decade. … The problems of traffic are crowding in upon us with desperate
urgency. Unless steps are taken, the motor vehicle will defeat its own utility and bring about a disastrous degradation of the
surroundings for living. … Either the utility of vehicles in town will decline rapidly, or the pleasantness and safety of
surroundings will deteriorate catastrophically—in all probability both will happen.
I suggest that is what has happened. There are parking problems in Cronulla and with the future of the Croydon
Street parking station. This is a matter that should concern the State Government as well. Our streets are
congested, particularly in the shire, and it is not now restricted to peak hours. It is a problem that has become
critical and one that needs attention. The council should have a strategic approach and a plan to deal with the
future of car parking in the shire. Caringbah would benefit if a contest were held for a planning concept to
improve the area so that vehicles and pedestrians can have access and the built environment can be improved.
This contest could be open to various architectural and town planning faculties in universities. I am sure it
would greatly enhance the future of the area while providing a practical policy for the council to implement.
TAMWORTH JOBLINK PLUS DRIVER TRAINING
Mr PETER DRAPER (Tamworth) [12.16 p.m.]: Too many people in New South Wales find obtaining
a driver's licence an almost impossible goal. Some learners, who face 120 hours of supervised driving, fudge
their logbooks in an attempt to beat the system. A learner driver has to drive 7,200 kilometres averaging
60 kilometres per hour to meet the regulations. Joblink Plus in Tamworth estimates that fuel plus wear and tear
on a vehicle cost 65 cents a kilometre, so a licence that most country people need to get a job can cost up to
$4,680. It is a vicious circle, with people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds unable to get a licence and
then becoming caught up in the cycle of disadvantage. Tamworth's Joblink Plus driver training provides a highly
personalised, professional and quality driver training experience, with safety the integral focus along with
employment outcomes.
This invaluable service improves equity, job prospects and life chances for people who do not have
individual capacity, and it delivers benefits to the whole community. Joblink Plus driver training was established
because of shortfalls in Tamworth's driver training organisations. Many people cannot access a vehicle for their
supervised driving, or do not have a licensed driver to act as their supervisor, so Joblink Plus works with clients
to help them obtain their L-plates and then their P-plates. Joblink Plus also engages with the broader community
through its community partnerships. It has identified a large number of people who fall through systemic gaps,
with disadvantaged people often in a position where they drive unlicensed, have unregistered vehicles, and end
up with unpaid fines. This cycle can prevent individuals from being eligible to sit for a driver's licence.
To address this barrier to employment, Joblink Plus established its Community Learner Driver
Mentoring Program specifically targeting this high-need group. Outcomes of the program include: Support for
disadvantaged people who find it difficult to obtain their learner driver's licence, by delivering a tailored L-plate
training course; increased access for people who face difficulty in achieving the required hours of supervised
driving experience for a P1 licence; increased road safety knowledge by both the target group and the mentor
group; increased sense of connection by the target group with the broader community; and the P1 licence being
obtained by the participating target group.
Highly accredited road safety education professionals with special skills in teaching high-need
individuals coordinate the program, and volunteer mentors are recruited from the community. I am a mentor and
I spend one hour every Monday to help a terrific young Aboriginal man get his driver's licence. It is a truly
rewarding experience. Mentors undertake specialised training to be aware of the special needs of participants in
the program, to become familiar with the Roads and Traffic Authority's road user handbook and the learner
driver logbook, and gain improved knowledge about the principles of low-risk driving, including some practical
"how to" tips. In addition to mentor training, induction training for participants ensures they have a clear
understanding of the objectives and their role and responsibility should they participate in the program.
The learner driver mentoring coordinator is in regular contact with both mentors and mentees,
providing an opportunity to debrief, solve problems and plan future driving experiences. While Joblink Plus has
invested considerable resources to establish this program in terms of vehicles and mentoring costs, the initiative
requires a secure funding commitment to expand further into isolated communities. The driver-training arm of
the business aims to cover the running costs, along with community support, but expansion would require
additional vehicles and therefore additional funds. Government could play a vital role here by providing
financial support, which would assist long-term outcomes that change people's lives. One of the first graduates
from the program, Mr Neil Porter, said:
The Joblink course has really changed my life, I now feel like getting out there amongst it, and I have the confidence to keep
moving forward. I could not have done it without the team at Joblink Plus.
Supporting the disadvantaged in our community does much more than just help them gain a licence; it can be a
catalyst to improve people's life chances. The program is holistic, helps to create a sense of connection, develops
self-worth and creates a belief that participants have a strong future. What begins as driver mentoring becomes
much more than just driving a car; it is about people connecting with others, delivering potential and believing
that change is possible. A small investment can give this fine program a long-term future, with all the positive
flow-on effects to the wider community. I congratulate Joblink Plus and I urge the Government to examine this
model closely as it is a quality framework and one that could be rolled out to many other communities in New
South Wales.
TARCUTTA TRANS-HELP FOUNDATION
Mr DARYL MAGUIRE (Wagga Wagga) [12.21 p.m.]: The Trans-Help Foundation is a national
non-profit organisation that assists transport drivers and their families in crisis. It also advocates the health and
wellbeing of transport personnel. The service, which is quite diverse, includes assisting families following
accidents and fatalities, a 1300 support service that is the transport industry's lifeline, and also a mobile health
and support unit that provides free preliminary health checks to drivers on the roads. The most prominent
Trans-Help Foundation, which is located in Tarcutta, is affiliated with Beyond Blue and is listed on the MIMS
website. The Trans-Help Foundation has the support of the Riverina Division of General Practice, is a registered
charity and has deductibility gift recipient status.
Trans-Help has grown rapidly and the demand for services is increasing at the same rate, thus the
urgent need for a national office and call centre, and additional services to increase urgent health and welfare
services to the transport industry. Trans-Help recently purchased the facility formerly known as Hillside Haven
in Tarcutta in the Wagga Wagga electorate. That facility will be transformed into the national head office and
call centre, a training facility, and provide respite for injured drivers and affected families. Trans-Help has a
five-year plan for the precinct. If Trans-Help is to achieve all its objectives it needs to acquire an adjoining
building—the former Tarcutta Community Health Centre—that has been closed for many years. The former
Hillside Haven property is accessible only via the adjoining property, which is the Tarcutta Community Health
Centre.
It becomes clear to anyone visiting the property that the newer facility was constructed to blend in with
the older building, and an undercover walkway joins the two buildings The land titles are the only evidence that
those two buildings are separate entities. Currently the building is governed by the Greater Southern Area
Health Service, which it inherited at no cost, as did its predecessors, Greater Murray Health Services. This
facility has a long history. In 1956 the need for a medical facility in Tarcutta was obvious, so the Tarcutta and
District Co-operative Community Hospital Committee was formed.
The new committee established the Tarcutta District Hospital Building Fund to build a hospital in the
township that would service the local community and the transport industry. Local shareholders, transport
organisations, businesses and locals contributed to the building fund, which resulted in the establishment in the
early 1960s of the Tarcutta Community Health Centre. Following a large contribution to the building fund by a
transport association, the newspaper of the day, under the heading "Drivers have a soft spot for Tarcutta", stated:
The Doctor at Tarcutta has treated hundreds of drivers who were involved in accidents in or around the township.
If the new organisation acquired this building it would enable it to continue to provide vital services for the
community of Tarcutta, which is why I am making this plea today. When the health centre was originally built
the Truck Drivers Association contributed over £1,000, and transport companies made other donations. Drivers
delivered materials for the building free of charge from Sydney and Melbourne. Tarcutta, which is the halfway
point between Sydney and Melbourne, has long been known as a trucking centre. A memorial has been erected
in Tarcutta to remember all those drivers and their associates who lost their lives on Australian roads. Tarcutta is
iconic in the trucking industry.
Trans-Help's initiative will benefit the trucking community and the Tarcutta community. I ask the
Minister for Health to negotiate with this organisation as quickly as possible to enable it to take possession of
this vacant building. The building is in need of maintenance but there is no doubt in my mind that Trans-Help
will transform it and deliver important health services for the trucking industry and for the Tarcutta community.
Tarcutta no longer has a community doctor; it has only a community nurse who visits the area. If it were able to
acquire this building it would have access to the newly purchased property and, importantly, enable it to build
on the wonderful achievements of Ron Pullen, Dianne Carroll and others in the Trans-Help Foundation.
Question—That private members' statements be noted—put and resolved in the affirmative.
Private members' statements noted.
The House adjourned, pursuant to sessional orders, at 12.26 p.m. until

Tuesday 23 June 2009 at 1.00 p.m.
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16398

The Speaker read the Prayer and acknowledgement of country.

Bill introduced on motion by Mr John Aquilina, on behalf of Ms Carmel Tebbutt.

Mr JOHN AQUILINA (Riverstone—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.00 a.m.]: I move:

ROOKWOOD NECROPOLIS REPEAL BILL 2009

Debate resumed from 17 June 2009.

Mr BARRY COLLIER (Miranda—Parliamentary Secretary) [10.16 a.m.], in reply: I thank the

Motion agreed to.

Bill agreed to in principle.

Passing of the Bill

BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

LEGISLATION REVIEW COMMITTEE

Report: Legislation Review Digest No. 8 of 2009

Question—That the House take note of the report—proposed.

PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENTS

Question—That private members' statements be noted—proposed.

POLICE MEDAL AND AWARDS PRESENTATION

HORNSBY ELECTORATE SCHOOLS

that was not the intention of that money—

ST DAVID'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, WOY WOY

VALLEY INDUSTRIES GROUP

MAITLAND YOUTH FORUM

Mr FRANK TERENZINI (Maitland) [11.00 a.m.]: I advise members of my attendance on 28 May

EASTWOOD RYDE NETBALL ASSOCIATION

MISTAKEN IDENTITY LITIGATION

Ms SONIA HORNERY (Wallsend—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.15 a.m.]: I commend the member

COFFS HARBOUR SHOWGROUND

trustee as there is only one person and not a trust generally—

STAY AWAKE ON THE PRINCES HIGHWAY CAMPAIGN

Ms LYLEA McMAHON (Shellharbour—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.21 a.m.]: On Wednesday

CHRISTIAN CITY CHURCH RAINBOW ROOM

Another testimonial states:

Wishing you and your family a peaceful and relaxing Christmas …

LOW-INCOME EARNER LOANS

NORTHERN BEACHES HOSPITALS

Dr ANDREW McDONALD (Macquarie Fields—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.41 a.m.]: The Minister

TRIBUTE TO JOSHUA LAWRENCE

Dr ANDREW McDONALD (Macquarie Fields—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.43 a.m.]: I report the

Lay me down in the sacred ground

By the waters in the river bend

ALL SAINTS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELMORE

Ms SONIA HORNERY (Wallsend—Parliamentary Secretary) [11.50 a.m.]: I congratulate All Saints

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL

WORLDSKILLS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION

DAVIDSON ELECTORATE HISTORY

GLENN MCGRATH STATUE, NARROMINE

CARINGBAH CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

TAMWORTH JOBLINK PLUS DRIVER TRAINING

TARCUTTA TRANS-HELP FOUNDATION

Question—That private members' statements be noted—put and resolved in the affirmative.

Private members' statements noted.

The House adjourned, pursuant to sessional orders, at 12.26 p.m. until

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