Bert Van Manen (Forde, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

on indulgence—I would like to take this opportunity to thank the member for Fowler for the work we've been able to do together as chief whips on either side of this parliament. That's not only in our role as whips but in previous roles on committees where we have served together. I'd like to associate myself with the remarks which were made by the previous speakers in acknowledging your service, not only in this parliament, Chris, but also in our community over a much longer period of time. If there's one thing that I've seen in you over the time that I have got to know you in this place, it's your willingness to serve our community.

But, more importantly, there is the joy you get out of serving our community. I think that's one thing we can all take away from the example you have set for all of us: to enjoy and take joy from the responsibilities and opportunities we've been given to serve our communities. I want to thank Bernadette as well for your role in leading the parliamentary partners group. As the Prime Minister outlined, there was the welcome you gave to my wife, Judi, when she first became part of the parliamentary partners and there has been the time which you have served together on the committee there.

It is a true partnership and I wish you both every success for the future. I look forward to continuing to work with you for the rest of this term, but I thank you for your service to this parliament and to the community throughout your life.

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