Michael Johnson (Ryan, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

As the federal member for Ryan, a federal seat in the western suburbs of Brisbane, it is a great honour to again speak in the Australian parliament on behalf of the people that I represent, on this occasion on the Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2007-2008. We have just heard an enormous amount of claptrap and certainly a misguided analysis from the member opposite, the member for Parramatta. I do not know where she was on budget night, but to say that nothing good came out of the budget for the Australian people really does reflect sheer arrogance on her part, if anything, and a lack of understanding of the budget process and of what this government has done for the people of Australia.

I must say at the outset that it seems I have got too much of a good thing to talk about. I have 15 pages here of the wonderful stuff done by the federal government and I have only 20 minutes in this presentation. But probably the most important thing for me to start off my presentation is to extend very warm congratulations to the Queensland State of Origin side, which last night defeated the New South Wales Blues 25 to18. What an example of courage and determination, of discipline and teamwork. What a wonderful example of ability and skill that, I might say, is not just acquired overnight or in the months leading up to the actual result on the night. I want to take the opportunity to compliment the captain of the Queensland State of Origin side, Darren Lockyer. This man is full of athletic ability and sheer football skill and I noticed that he led by example and demonstrated incredible leadership skills. Again, I might say, these were not just acquired overnight but honed after more than just a few seasons in the team. He seemed to lead his team with a remarkable self-belief and he also had faith in his team members. So what an inspiration!

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