Brian Mitchell (Lyons, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I could stand here and thank every GP in my electorate, because heaven knows there are not enough of them, and every one of them works really hard across my regions. But I'm on my feet today to take the opportunity to recognise the extraordinary service of Dr Cyril Latt. Dr Latt is a GP in the regional town of St Marys, in Tasmania's Fingal Valley. At a time when it is becoming—

A division having been called in the House of Representatives—

Sitt ing suspended from 16:24 to 16:36

It is more important than ever to recognise the vital role GPs play in our local communities. Dr Latt's service to the township of St Marys and beyond is to be commended. Not only does he provide exceptional care as a GP; he is also on call at all hours for the St Marys Community Health Centre hospital service. He continually goes above and beyond to ensure the health and wellbeing needs of the community are met. I've had many, many members of the Fingal Valley community ask me to publicly acknowledge Dr Latt and pass on their thanks and gratitude for his continued dedication and care.

He truly exemplifies the unique and special relationship an experienced, caring and dedicated regional GP has with their community. The trust that is built by practitioners such as Dr Latt has a profound impact on regional and rural communities, their participation in health care and overall health outcomes. One resident emphatically told me that to say that Dr Latt is worth his weight in gold is an understatement, and I could not agree more. Thank you, Dr Latt, for your service.

See this speech in context