Rebekha Sharkie (Mayo, Centre Alliance) Share this | Hansard source

Christmas is approaching, and I wish all Australians the joy of the season. I thank those who will work over Christmas in our health and emergency services, our essential services and, of course, many small businesses. I thank volunteers who will care for the vulnerable, manning the fire trucks and watching over families on our beaches. I have five surf life saving clubs in my electorate: Goolwa, Chiton Rocks,Port Elliot, Normanville and Aldinga Beach. They do an amazing job. Equally amazing are the several thousand CFS volunteers from the 150 plus CFS brigades in Mayo who will be on alert this fire season.

Christmas is also a time to remember those who are alone. Sadly, approximately 40 per cent of people living in residential aged care have no visitors 365 days a year, including Christmas. This is heartbreaking. This season I would like to ask all Australians to think of an elderly relative or old neighbour who is now in care and consider giving them a gift of a visit. Merry Christmas to all, particularly all of my constituents in Mayo. I wish everyone a happy and prosperous new year.

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