Thomas George 2LM Charity Walk
Echo 3 November 2005
Thomas George 2LM Charity Walk
I wish to congratulate and thank the businesses and individuals who took part in
this activity to raise much needed funds for beneficiaries such as Biala Special
School, Ballina Early Intervention, North Coast Children's Home (CASPA),
Summerland Early Intervention, Wilson Park School, Byron Shire Early Childhood
Intervention and Jumbunna Early Intervention.
MoU - Clubs
I have had the pleasure of attaching my signature, with that of the Leader of
the Nationals, Andrew Stoner, Leader of the NSW Opposition, Peter Debnam and
President of Clubs NSW, Peter Newell, to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at
the recent Conference of Clubs at Tweed Heads. This MoU reflects the desire of
the Liberal and the Nationals to create an environment conducive to the
sustainability and future health of the NSW Club Movement. The Parties recognise
the significant, growing economic and social contribution that clubs make to the
State and in turn local communities. I have organised countersigning by local
clubs Managers, Casino RSM, Darren Schipp and Lismore Workers Club, Steve
Bortolin.
Electorate Functions
Lismore Show - regardless of the amount of rain, the Waltzing Matilda Story went
on and was a fabulous performance; a tribute to the actors, animals and students
who participated. The show received great reviews and was one of a number of
attractions for the community to enjoy. The regional event was again a success
and a credit to the hard work of John Gibson, Ian Mulligan, the Committee and
the tireless team of volunteers. Congratulations!
Northern Rivers Conservatorium Open Day - I congratulate the Northern Rivers
Conservatorium on its recent Open Day and trust that many enjoyed the
opportunity to visit the conservatorium.
Kyogle Branch of the Royal Far West Children's Health Annual Dinner - I was
honoured to attend this special event that epitomizes the spirit of the Kyogle
Community. The community's support for such organisations is tremendous and this
exceptional occasion for the branch celebrating its 61st annual dinner, which
was well attended is a tribute to the sentiment and character of people in the
Kyogle township and surrounds.
Lismore Minister's Fellowship Breakfast - I was honoured to be a guest at this
yearly breakfast to acknowledge and encourage local community leaders. The
support, prayers and thoughts of this group are always appreciated.
Duke of Edinburgh's Awards - My association with presenting and acknowledging
the efforts of local students who have greatly benefited from the guidance and
support of Mr Ted Davy continues to be a great pleasure. Congratulations to
Danielle Byrnes, Samantha Ballingall, Hamish Webster Jackson Purtle, Timothy
Harris and Joanne Ethell.
Tuntable Falls Community School - visiting local schools is a invaluable
experience in interacting with various students and their school community. I
presented the school with a state flag and I enjoyed the entertainment and
singing by the students, as well as the opportunity to speak with the children.
Award Presentation - It was my honour to present Dr Vahideh Hosseini with an
award from the Federation of Ethnic Communities' councils of Australia in
recognition of her 25 years of service of commitment and contribution to
Australian Multiculturalism.
Marrowthon Awards Dinner - I was very honoured to be the Master of Ceremonies at
the inaugural Marrowthon Awards Dinner. The dinner was acknowledgement of a long
and challenging day of golf for participants ending with a night of celebration
of their fundraising efforts. The format of this inaugural event was not only a
first for Lismore but also Australia. Well done Loma Graydon and her team of
volunteers.
Alstonville Show - Congratulations to President Greg Gordon and Secretary Dot
Smith, the Alstonville Agricultural Society Committee and their team of
volunteers on a wonderful show.
RRISK Program Launch - Reduce Risk Increase Student Knowledge, this programme
addresses adolescent risk taking with North Coast High School students. The
evaluation was funded by the NSW Motor Accident Authority and conducted by North
Coast Health promotion.
Our Kids Melbourne Cup Luncheon - I enjoyed the opportunity to join with members
of the community for such a worthy organisation to celebrate the Melbourne Cup
and raise funds for Our Kids. Congratulations to the businesses involved in
supporting this event as well as the organisation efforts of the ladies
involved.
Support for Schools
It is indeed pleasing that my Federal colleague, The Hon Ian Causley has been
successful in obtaining Capital Infrastructure Grants for local schools through
the Federal "Investing in Our Schools" programme. Funding will be utilised in a
variety of ways such as outdoor building improvements, playground equipment,
shade structures, refurbishments, classroom furniture as well as other essential
capital items.
