John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Normally at this time of the year I stand up here and cheer on the great local new year festivities that take place in Bennelong every year. On a normal year I would talk about the food and the incredible linedancing, and I would congratulate the organisers, including Hugh Lee and Anthony Ching and the AAAB, for all their hard work. This year I can't do this because the events have, regrettably, not gone ahead. In the context of the coronavirus outbreak, the council decided to shut down the event, as it considers it a risk to have so many thousands of people in a close space.

I would like to reiterate at this time that, despite some local media reporting to the contrary, there is no evidence that coronavirus has appeared in Eastwood, but the fear of this virus has kept crowds away. However, the fact is that business in Eastwood is hurting. I was down there for lunch last Friday with state member Victor Dominello and local business leaders. The food was as great as ever but the streets were unusually silent. But we'll be back again this Friday and we're calling on anyone who can come down and join us to join us. Eastwood should be booming during the Lunar New Year but unwarranted fear is hurting the culinary heart of our community and Australia. Join us, get out there and grab a bite at a local restaurant. It's safe, healthy and—most importantly—delicious!

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