Thanks

Thanks

I would like to thank residents of the Lismore Electorate for their confidence in re-electing me as their State Member for the ensuing Parliamentary term. I was overwhelmed and humbled by the increased majority both on primary votes and on the two-Party preferred results. I congratulate the State Labor Party on its historic third term victory, which will see a 12 year period of office for Labor in NSW. Being a Member of Parliament has been a wonderful challenge and an immense learning experience. My association and support from local businesses, organisations, Councils and the community has been wonderful. Rhonda and I enjoy the opportunities to become acquainted with so many various organisations and people from all walks of life. Please be assured I will continue this term to pursue for such issues as more police, increased funding for mental and dental health services and better roads.
Once again express my thanks to the Electorate and pledge that I will continue to represent all constituents with their respective needs.

New appointment

It is with great honour that I have accepted my new position of National Party Whip as well as congratulating my North Coast colleagues, Member for Oxley, Andrew Stoner on his election as the Parliamentary Leader of the NSW National Party and Member for Ballina, Don Page as Deputy. Mr Stoner represents the new generation of the National Party, and I look forward to working with Mr Stoner's team over the next four years. The team of Andrew Stoner and Don Page will make an outstanding contribution, offering youth and experience. I am looking forward to being part of the team, in supporting them in providing a strong voice and greater recognition for rural and regional communities. I would also like to pay tribute to George Souris and John Turner and on behalf of the Lismore Electorate thank them for their leadership and contribution during the past five years.

Bob Gates Legacy

Having a long and varied association with Bob Gates and his wife Helen, I was very saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Bob's contribution to Local Government through Rous County Council then Mayor of Lismore City Council, the community and Lismore was unequalled and will be sadly missed. I always admired Bob's proficiency to get the job done, make sound decisions, guidance in the Council's planning, his communication and negotiating skills, his understanding of the principles of management and ability to supervise and deliver. These qualities will remain as Bob's legacy contributing to the history of Lismore and Local Government. I also recognise that Bob's achievements would not have been possible without the love and support of Helen and his family. On behalf Lismore residents, our thoughts and condolences are with them and Rhonda and I trust that God will bless Helen and the family at this difficult time.

Troops

My thoughts are with our troops involved in the war in Iraq. I pray for the safe return of our Australian servicemen and women who are involved in Iraq and that they return to a welcoming and grateful Australia. Whatever your beliefs on the war in Iraq, I believe it is paramount that any public criticism is not directed towards our servicemen and women. If anyone in the Electorate is a parent or a relative of one of our servicemen or women in the Gulf, please contact the Electorate Office with details of their name, unit and address particulars as I would like to write a personal letter of support to them. My thoughts are constantly with our troops abroad and the letter might just help to reinforce our full support.

Hot Water Relays

During the coming weeks, Country Energy will be upgrading equipment on some customers' meter boards to improve the effectiveness of their hot water relays. Country Energy approved contractors, Formway, or local staff will attend premises with authorised identification. In the interests of safety, it may be necessary to disconnect electricity support for approximately 15 minutes whilst this work is being undertaken. Further information please contact Country Energy on 13 20 80.