Page 2537 - Week 07 - Tuesday, 1 July 2008
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Arts—Fresh Funk performance
MR MULCAHY (Molonglo) (6.55): On Sunday night my wife and I had the pleasure of attending the Fresh Funk performance entitled “Larger Than Life” in Erindale and I want to put on the record my very strong and positive impressions of the work of the Fresh Funk coordinators who work very closely with the folks at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre.
It is particularly important to recognise the great contribution those organisers have made towards young people in Canberra and it is reflected in the large body of interest amongst young Canberrans to join with these dance activities. I understand that there were around 300 performers involved in “Larger Than Life” over the weekend and they all they deserve commendation for and recognition of their efforts.
All up, around 1,300 people attended three performances over the weekend. It was a fantastic experience and a highly entertaining show that the whole audience became a part of and enjoyed. I understand that the show took some six months to prepare. The high standard of choreography and talent available from young Canberrans was clearly evident. I would like to specifically single out the two choreographers and program managers, Leena Spry and Geza Szanto, who did a wonderful job in bringing the whole show together. The standard of choreography was, as I said, very high and it was plainly evident from the performance.
I have tried to get to the shows over the last several years. One of my children is very active in this group. But the standout feature for me was to see an activity that so many young Canberrans can be involved with and that is so completely positive. The praise that the young people involved have for the organisers is widespread and I think it is important that we try and recognise people who are making such a contribution to positive, sensible and creative activities for particularly teens living in the territory.
I might also just add tonight that we heard some positive comments earlier this week about an initiative for grandparents leave. I put a statement out and did some media praising that initiative. One of the statistics I heard revealed in a radio news coverage of this issue was that 100 people—I believe, if I heard correctly—over the age of 70 are still employed in the territory.
It is fitting tonight to recognise, without giving away age, that our most senior employee in this establishment is having his birthday tomorrow, Mr Peter Litchfield, and I would like to wish him well and I am sure members will join with me, as he is our most senior in years of service attendant, in wishing him all the best for tomorrow.
Question resolved in the affirmative
The Assembly adjourned at 6.59 pm.
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