John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I would like to give part 2 of my serialised speech of thanks to everyone who helped out in the Bennelong by-election. As with all campaigns, we would never have been successful without our wonderful volunteers. I could never name all of you but I'd like to acknowledge just a small few who made a critical difference on the ground—firstly, Helen Russell. When Epping prepoll turned into an arms race for poll position on the doors of the booth, Helen stepped forward to do the graveyard shift, loyally turning up at, frankly, daft times every morning to ensure that we had the best spot. As a result, I got to talk to thousands of people. Thank you, Helen! The great Bob Lawrence: nothing was too hard for Bob, who turned out at every possible opportunity with volunteers, material, advice and a smile. Thank you, Bob. Your presence and your dependability kept many in in the campaign office nearly sane. And the inimitable Daryl McGuire, state member for Wagga Wagga: when the mercury hit 40, other parties melted in the shade, but not Daryl. Daryl, armed with an akubra and a pack of icy poles, rallied the troops to make sure that we did not wilt when the going got damn hot. I cannot thank you three enough. Of course, thank you to everyone who turned up during the campaign to make a difference.