Page 4425 - Week 12 - Thursday, 24 October 2019
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I do remember thinking when we were walking up the rocky slope on the side of Oak Hill that I would have to ask Josh to explain to me exactly what he meant by “comparatively flat”. I guess in comparison to a sheer vertical cliff that may have been the case. I was just grateful I had decided not to strap Mia to my chest, as I am not sure that I would have made it.
I am sure my colleagues here will know that, aside from a number of constitutional requirements, the ACT border was specifically marked to protect the water catchment of the then Federal Capital Territory. This means that the exact path of the border follows the watershed and is designed to ensure water security for the territory.
From the cliff face of Mount Coree to the grasslands of Jerrabomberra to the wetlands of Mount Ginini, Rod’s self-professed moment of madness to decide to walk the border draws attention to the ACT’s unique environment and the numerous ecosystems the border crosses. Only a few people have walked the entire 306 kilometre length of the border. After completing the 21-day journey today, Rod may well be the only person to have done it twice.
Hats off to Rod, not only for his endurance but for his passion and dedication to conserving and protecting our environment and his commitment to the Conservation Council and its work. This year, Rod’s trip has raised a total of about $6,500, and that is just so far; their goal is to reach $10,000. This money will go toward the core functions of the Conservation Council and will allow them to continue to campaign for improved outcomes for our environment.
I thank the Conservation Council for inviting me along for a tiny part of the border, a great excuse to dust off my walking shoes and see another great part of the territory and observe my electorate from afar. I hope that Rod has another moment of madness in 2020 and decides to walk the border for a third time.
Standing orders—suspension
Motion (by Ms Stephen-Smith) agreed to, with the concurrence of an absolute majority:
That so much of the standing orders be suspended as would prevent the adjournment debate being extended by 15 minutes.
Health—sexual health
MS STEPHEN-SMITH (Kurrajong—Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Minister for Children, Youth and Families, Minister for Health and Minister for Urban Renewal) (6.29): Yesterday Eleanor Hickey took over my office and social media as part of the girls take over parliament program. I note that yesterday, Madam Speaker, you also presented a speech prepared by Eleanor, on the subject of climate change, to which I listened with interest. As part of the takeover, I also asked Eleanor to prepare a speech on an issue that, given the opportunity, she would want to speak about in this place. Eleanor spoke with me about her interest in promoting sexual health and wellbeing and prepared this speech for me to deliver.
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