Ross Vasta (Bonner, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I would like to speak about my recent visit to Moreton Bay College in my electorate. I, along with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Leader, the Honourable Julie Bishop, met the senior girls at MBC to discuss important issues and events affecting them. The MBC community has been shaken by the latest terror attack in London, which claimed the life of MBC old girl, Sara Zelenak. Minister Bishop advised the girls on how to turn this tragedy into motivation, to go forth and be the very best that they can. She spoke about the importance of standing strong together in the face of tough times. She also gave the girls an insight into her own life and the trials and tribulations she has faced as a lawyer and politician. The students then had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to present questions to the minister.

The school motto at Moreton Bay college is 'Breadth of mind. Depth of heart.' This motto is no doubt embodied within the MBC community. The minister told the girls life is not without obstacles and battles, but if you believe that you can achieve great things then you can. I was impressed by the self-awareness and intelligence of the girls, demonstrated when they questioned the minister, and I have no doubt that they have great things ahead of them. I thank the minister for joining me at Moreton Bay College and for sharing her insight with the senior girls.