Gordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to commend the Australia Day honours recipients in my electorate of Robertson.

A division having been called in the House of Representatives—

Sitting suspended from 16 : 40 to 16 : 51

As I was saying, I rise to commend the Australia Day honours recipients in my electorate of Robertson. This year there are six recipients, and they are Julie Commins OAM, Pauline Maniskas OAM, Dr Michael Mitchelmore OAM, Clint Newton OAM, John Wade OAM and Stuart Tipple OAM. These six individuals have led outstanding lives and have committed themselves to enriching the lives of others and the community.

Julie Commins devotes her life to several social organisations and to sport. Julie has been a group leader at the 1st Turramurra Scout Group since 1992 and has been a member since 1990. Julie has been involved with the Kissing Point Softball Club, where she has undertaken roles as team official, manager secretary and general manager. Julie has also devoted time to the North Shore District Softball Association in the roles of team manager and volunteer.

Pauline Maniskas has contributed to improving the quality of life of people with a disability. She has been the board director at Camp Breakaway since 2019, where she also assists as a personal carer and activity programmer. Pauline is also a founding member and secretary of Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association of Australia, which began in 2005. Moreover, Pauline has volunteered at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Terrigal, and Youth Off The Streets.

Dr Michael Mitchelmore is an honorary associate professor at Macquarie University across the subjects of the arts, mathematics, science and education. Dr Mitchelmore has helped author 19 books. He is one of several founding board members of the Kuringai Youth Orchestra, a member of the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, a performer with Central Coast Opera, Treasurer of Central Coast Conservatorium and a volunteer with Gosford Theatre Company. He is also involved in the Copacabana Community Men's Shed.

Clint Newton is a rugby league and English Rugby Super League legend. Clint has had an illustrious career in rugby league and now works with the Australian Rugby League Players Association, where he advocates better conditions for players and their families. Clint has also been an ambassador for the Australian Childhood Foundation, White Ribbon Australia and Project Rescue Children.

Stuart Tipple is a lawyer and has been the principal of Stuart Tipple Law since 2017. During his career he has represented high-profile cases, including the Michael and Lindy Chamberlain trials, appeals and inquests. Stuart is a former president of the Central Coast Law Society and is a member of the Law Society of New South Wales. He has been involved with the Salvation Army, Legacy in New South Wales, War Widows of New South Wales and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency.

Lastly, John Wade is a respected former businessman who has owned and developed familiar brands including Sunpak Fruit Juice, Sunrise Juice and Snackbrands Pty Ltd. Nowadays John provides his support to veterans affairs and Brisbane Water Legacy.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to personally commend each and every one of these six recipients and congratulate them on receiving this distinguished title. Our nation is greater because of citizens like you.

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