Trent Zimmerman (North Sydney, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Amidst the gloom of the coronavirus pandemic, there has been some positive and, indeed, exciting news on the global health front. Today, health authorities have declared the entire African continent free of wild polio. It means that polio can be found now only in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and in very small numbers. This is a stunning achievement for the global health community. It is also a credit to those who have worked to fundraise for the international efforts to eliminate polio, particularly Rotary International, which has led the charge by making the elimination of polio their global mission for many years. Every one of the tens of thousands of Australian Rotarians can be proud of their contribution to this outcome.

At this time of year, Rotary Clubs across Australia have their annual changeover events—a little bit different in 2020—where they reflect on their achievements and install new presidents and executives for the year ahead. I'd like to congratulate the new presidents leading the clubs in my own electorate: Peter Kindred and David Brand, of the newly merged and formed Chatswood Roseville branch; Julian McVittie, of Chatswood International; Keith Chaffey, of Chatswood Sunrise; Ian Pocock, of Crows Nest; Michael Parsons, of Hunters Hill; Silvio Gmur, of Lane Cove; Toni Field OAM, of North Sydney; Kelvin Tattrie, of Northbridge—and, gee, we missed the Northbridge fireworks this year; and Catherine Glinka from my own club, North Sydney Sunrise, the best club in Sydney, of course. I also want to pay tribute to the outgoing presidents and executives who have completed their terms. I know our communities are grateful for and proud of all you have achieved for them.