Andrew Giles (Scullin, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Cities and Urban Infrastructure) Share this | Hansard source

I'm very proud to have the opportunity to rise very briefly to make some remarks in support of this very important motion. I want to acknowledge and congratulate my friend the member for McEwen for bringing this before the chamber. He and I are both equally proud to represent, in our neighbouring electorates, a large, vibrant and growing Sikh community and, through them, to have been introduced to the tenets of Sikhism, tenets which have a great impact on how I see the world as well as how I go about my business as a member of parliament.

I was very pleased to have the opportunity to play a role in this place in various celebrations reflecting the 550th anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak. I joined many of my colleagues, in particular the Leader of the Opposition, the member for Grayndler, in paying tribute to Guru Nanak, the 550th anniversary of his birth and his enduring significance, not only to the Sikh community but also, through the celebrations, to the wider Australian community. I say to all those Australians who practise Sikhism: I acknowledge what a wonderful occasion this has been and I look forward to joining you in carrying on the celebrations.

Debate adjourned.

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