Tim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

It is, of course, a great pleasure to stand up on behalf of the Goldstein community and celebrate the beginning of the sailing season. If you know the federal electorate of Goldstein, Mr Deputy Speaker Broadbent, you will know that it is hugged by a coastline where sailing clubs are a very important part of our social infrastructure. On 1 October we had the opening of the Sandringham Yacht Club sailing season. On 2 October it was the commencement of the Royal Brighton Yacht Club sailing season. In the next couple of weeks we have the Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron and the Black Rock Yacht Club starting on 16 October and 23 October, respectively.

It is really important to acknowledge the contribution of these clubs in the community. What they do by providing a point of social infrastructure is not just provide an opportunity for individuals to participate, exercise and engage in sport but bring together family and, ultimately, community organisations, which are the foundations for building a great country. These family clubs have consistently brought people together to engage in important social activity.

Congratulations to all of the commodores and committees of these sailing clubs for the contribution that they make. But, more importantly, let us remind ourselves at the beginning of the sailing season that it is a pursuit which comes with risk. We wish everybody involved a safe sailing season for them and for all of their families.

See this speech in context