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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2003 Week 10 Hansard (23 September) . . Page.. 3572 ..

MR STEFANIAK (continuing):

He was a delightful old character. He was more than that, though. Aside from just being a wonderful character, he was probably one of the best bosses I ever had. He was a rather gruff, blustery man in many ways-and quite ferocious if you did not really get to know him. Yet behind that gruff exterior was a heart of gold.

John made an immense contribution to all those around him. His words of advice were quite prophetic. He helped people in many ways. He helped me-and not only as far as becoming a prosecutor is concerned. He was a very fair man and believed in fairness by the prosecution. Being an ex-soldier, he strongly supported me when I was going through my commissioning course in the army reserve. He was always happy to give me time off.

John ran a fine and friendly office because of his nature, professionalism and sheer humanity in dealing with all those with whom he came in contact. This included the people he had dealings with in the profession, and especially the people who worked for him.

Unfortunately, he was preceded by his wife, whom he lovingly called the duchess. John passed away after spending the latter years of his life in one of the old people's retirement villages in Page-I saw him only last year. He was quite well then but, sadly, passed away. Farewell, Colonel. Thank you very much for all you have done for the law in Canberra, for me personally and for so many others.

Ms Roslyn Dundas-fire at home

MS DUNDAS (6.38): On behalf of the Henry Street workers paradise, I want to put on the record our grateful thanks to the fire units from Belconnen and Charnwood-and the breathing support unit from Ainslie-which attended the fire at our house over the weekend. I would also like to thank the fire investigation unit for the work they have done and the support provided to us on Sunday after the fire.

Of course, we would like to thank our neighbours, who spotted the flames and made the call to 000. We were impressed with the speedy response from the Belconnen unit. They were there in five minutes and got the flames under control. The damage was contained, and we were able to save a large amount of our property that was in the house.

We have had many offers of support, and many people have offered to donate books to replace our collection that was lost. We are most appreciative of that and say thank you. To the members of the Assembly who have been supportive as well, I personally have really appreciated that at this time. We want to thank all the people who offered support-and the firies for the great job they did over the weekend.

Fire hazard reduction

MRS DUNNE: (6.40) I rise to speak about hazard reduction and the issues which have been prominent about trees in and around Canberra of late. There has been controversy around the place about my views on hazard reduction burning. I have made public statements where I have disagreed with the Greens-and especially Bob Brown-on their response to hazard reduction.

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