Lucy Wicks (Robertson, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak about some incredible individuals on the Central Coast who have recently been honoured with awards on Australia Day. Five people received an Order of Australia, including Tom Bagnat, for his service with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, including keeping our community safe from bushfires. Kevin Best was awarded an OAM for his years of service to football, including at Wyoming and Kincumber. Leslie Dell of East Gosford was awarded an OAM for service to business, education and the community. Stephen Emerson received recognition for his many years of service to veterans and their families, and Neville Glover was awarded an OAM for services to rugby league and the community, including with the police force.

Central Coast Council also continued its tradition of Australia Day awards and announced Kate Broadhurst as our local citizen of the year. Kate's 25 years of service to lifesaving include a unique surf-lifesaving program called Shark Nippers, for children with additional needs. Crystal Russom was the Youth of the Year award winner. Other community award winners include Paul Johnson, Norman Harris, Darryl Davis, John Oates, Richelle Ellis, Leasha Craig and Carley Chapman. Highly commended awards went to Kai Darwin, Leslie Smith, Colin Laing, Fred Leake, Tracey Howie, Shelly Luck, Margaret Smith and Jemma Smith. Council's Australia Day ambassador was, of course, our local music legend, and the coast's own superstar, Rod McCormack.

To each one of you: we know you don't seek the accolades, but you definitely deserve them. Our congratulations and our thanks for all you do for the Central Coast and Australia. (Time expired)

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