Tony Pasin (Barker, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge the important role that rural press has for rural communities. My electorate of Barker is over 60,000 square kilometres and encompasses a large variety of regions, people and, accordingly, press. From The Border Watch in Mount Gambier to The River News in Waikerie, the importance of a local voice, focusing on local issues, is very important to rural and regional Australians. Rural and regional Australia needs a strong voice. In many local communities that is provided by the newspaper and, sadly, it is the only press voice in too many cases.

It is to this effect that I would like to congratulate The South Eastern Times of Millicent on celebrating 125 years of distinguished service to the community. The South Eastern Times, formerly the Millicent Times, has now chronicled the lives of the citizens of Millicent and their surrounds, their businesses and their community with distinction for 125 years. I commend the current team at the paper, JL 'Fred' Smith—or, as he is known to me, 'comrade'—and Raquel Mustillo, who are continuously and diligently on the hunt for stories that will reflect Millicent and the south eastern community in 125 years' time when they celebrate the paper's 250th anniversary.

The community of Millicent is very fortunate to have such a rich and permanent record of its history. I congratulate all associated with the The South Eastern Times over its 125 year history and their hard work, dedication, professionalism and contribution to their community.