Page 5752 - Week 15 - Thursday, 10 December 2009
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To those of you who stand up for what you believe in: well done and thank you for being here. To your families who help you do it and allow you to do it and put up with you: give them our regards as well, because I think we probably spend more time with each other some days than we do with our families.
To my colleagues, I would have to say: fantastic year, guys. The unity, the strength, the determination, the agenda—it is all there. Under Zed’s leadership we have a clear agenda that we are seeking to achieve. We are not getting all our bills through, but we are getting some of them through, and you are a great group to work with.
To our staff: it is hard being in opposition, it is unfortunate to be in opposition, but I appreciate the spirit amongst the staff. Congratulations to you all. You do exceedingly well and we could not do it without you.
To my office, particularly Tim and Haidee: thanks for what you do for me. I do not feel that I ever come down here underprepared or underdone and I never go to a hearing without enough questions to get us through to the finals. So to Tim and Haidee: for all your assistance, thank you.
To my family, I would like to say to Robyn, David, Amy and Lorena: thanks for letting me do what I love doing. I hope that you continue to support me in what you do; I know that you will.
To finish, in support of what Mr Corbell said: think of the emergency services workers. They are there. It is not going to be a good season. Spare a thought for them. There is an expression we have now: “don’t be a tosser”. Do not throw your cigarette butts out of car windows. Do whatever you can as leaders of this community to make sure people understand about the fire danger.
MR HANSON (Molonglo) (6.02): Firstly, I would like to thank my constituents, the electorate of Molonglo, for allowing me the privilege of serving them this year. I have met many of them. They really are wonderful people here in Canberra, in all three electorates, but I would especially like to thank the people of Molonglo and wish them all the best for the coming break.
To those who work within the portfolio areas that I have of health, police, corrective services, Indigenous affairs and veterans affairs: I again echo the comments that have been made by Mr Smyth and Mr Corbell. I am sure others will make them as well. They all work hard throughout the year to serve their community and we pay homage to them. Many of them will be on the front line over Christmas and we spare them a thought. I also spare a thought for many of my former comrades who will be serving in very hostile places. I note that another soldier was wounded yesterday. Many of my friends are currently serving in Afghanistan and will be there over Christmas, so we should spare a thought for them.
To those who sit on the crossbench and in the government: thank you for a most engaging year. At times it has been pretty brutal, but at times it has been enjoyable. This has been a very lively and productive Assembly throughout the year. I hope you all have a good break with your families. I am sure you will enjoy a good break from
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