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

As we approach December, 'tis the season for school graduation ceremonies. Thirteen long years of school are coming to an end, and it's time for celebration and recognition of achievements, particularly after these last two unprecedented years. Like most people in this chamber, I would normally attend many of these ceremonies. I would get to present awards and sometimes say a few words to the leaving students, passing on my congratulations for hanging on in school longer than I did.

But, of course, this year is not a normal year, which is something we definitely don't need to remind the graduating class of 2021 of. I cannot begin to comprehend the challenges they have must faced learning without classrooms, studying without friends and finishing without celebrations. It is to their great credit that these students have persevered throughout this year, and in many cases excelled, so I would like to congratulate all the students of Bennelong, especially in my absence. Well done for surviving another strange year without your friends, teachers and routines. Thank you to all the teachers who have had to adapt in tough circumstances and continued to stay upbeat and positive. Most importantly, congratulations to all those leaving school this year. Well done on keeping your heads through the last two bizarre and unpredictable years, and good luck for whatever next year and beyond has for you.