Andrew Charlton (Parramatta, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge the residents of the Parramatta and Cumberland council areas who received awards in the Australia Day honours list. These are residents who've made a huge contribution to our community and are rightly recognised for the effort that they've contributed. They are people like Peter Bacha OAM, the much loved founder of the Rydalmere Lions Football Club. Peter has given 40 years of service to that club, and what a legacy he has built, creating an outstanding community club and an institution where families go to enjoy themselves and where kids have fun, get outdoors and play sport. There's not a single pokie in the entire club, just a wonderful family environment.

There is also Councillor Sabrin Farooqui from Cumberland City Council, who's been recognised for her service to the community. Sabrin is the President of the Cultural Diversity Network and makes an outstanding contribution through all of her work in community groups and across the council. Another person who received an award was Sarkis Karam, a proud Lebanese Australian. Sarkis is a journalist, he's a director of the Merrylands RSL Club, and he's involved in many other community activities. Finally, Lilian Ries received an OAM. Lilian has been volunteering at Ronald McDonald House for 30 years. This year she turned 100. She's made a huge contribution to our community and is much loved for everything that she's done. Congratulations.

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