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

We like to use this time in members' statements to talk about locals. Today I would like to talk about a local lady who grew up in a little corner of without a doubt, as hard a working person as I have ever met. We met ten years ago when I was campaigning to win this seat. She was a great supporter, coach and mentor.

Since then she has taken on even more challenging tasks, being at the forefront of the fight against the bushfires and being our state's greatest fighter in combatting this pandemic. She is, of course, our own Gladys Berejiklian. I met many politicians in the last ten years but, without fear of contradiction, I don't know anyone who can surpass her in integrity, diligence and determination to improve New South Wales for all of us.

That New South Wales has handled this pandemic so well, with jobs returning and life ongoing, it's a real testament to her leadership and stick-to-it-ivness. Integrity, honesty and modesty are her hallmarks. Her passion, drive and energy have seen us through this and other challenges. But also her leadership has turned this state back into the nation's economic powerhouse, so, on behalf of all of New South Wales, I'd like to simply say, 'Thank you, Gladys.' I'm proud to call Gladys Berejiklian a friend—a very special friend.