Jason Falinski (Mackellar, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to share some cheer during this torrid time in Australia's history. In my electorate of Mackellar there is a jewel of a woman, Mackellar's own version of the charming and charismatic Auntie Mame. Meryl Butler, at the spritely age of 100 years, has won our hearts with her warmth, insight, positivity, and good cheer. Meryl has loved and lost and created so many memories and anecdotes that I could wax lyrical for far longer than the allotted time. This dynamo of a woman attributes her longevity to red wine, dark chocolate and 'a good man'—they're hard to find, Madam Acting Deputy Speaker Claydon.

Yes, I know, but she does it in equal measure, member for North Sydney! Meryl believes that life should be embraced and that travel and learning should be pursued. She believes in loads of laughter, independence and a touch of naughtiness. Meryl's love of life and her joie de vivre are evident from the outset. She has found that all the wonderful people you meet in life keep your spirits high—in fact, Meryl bemoans the fact that she just doesn't have time to meet them all as she is a busy bee. We should all take a leaf from Meryl's book, and I will take this opportunity to wish her a very happy 100th birthday.

Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm sure we all do.