Ann Sudmalis (Gilmore, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Living in Gilmore is a complete blessing. On 18 August I attended two commemorative events for Vietnam veterans. Firstly, I acknowledge the efforts of the Huskisson RSL Sub-Branch, because they had to move the event from Voyager Park to indoors due to the raging winds. Later that day a fairly large crowd gathered at Walsh Park for that commemoration. Clive Poulton, a life member of the Vietnam Veterans Association, took care of the whole event. TS Shoalhaven Navy Cadets were present, as was the Air Force Cadets unit. They made up the catafalque party. As the sun set and the flags flapped in the breeze, the poignant moment was complete with the bugle playing of Peter Williams.

During the previous week, Kioloa's mobile phone tower was finally switched on. After five years of trying to find an acceptable site, the ANU campus board suggested they act as a host. This solved the longstanding problem. Well done to Barry Ellis and Justin and Mary Stanwick for their efforts at finally getting a resolution.

I should mention the Kiama Artisan Food Festival, which was helped and supported by the federal government with a grant of $16,000 for the Kiama Show Society. Visiting chef Mark Olive, otherwise known as the black olive, supervised a great dinner. He sourced the ingredients locally—within 50 kilometres. He was a thoroughly great guy. We raised over $1,800 for Rotary's drought appeal and everybody thought it was a great night.