Rick Wilson (O'Connor, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

As 2021 draws to a close, I want to say how proud I am to represent the people of O'Connor. They have shown that strong, resilient regional communities are the backbone of our nation. In the face of the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic, O'Connor communities have maintained business as usual. Our farmers have kept on farming and indeed are on track for a record 20-million-tonne grain crop this season. Our miners have kept mining and exporting at record levels. Our transport industries have maintained our supply chains, both here at home and internationally. Our regional tourism industry has continued to flourish, and our O'Connor businesses prosper. At a more grassroots level, our regional communities have continued to support one another, caring for the elderly, protecting our most vulnerable and raising our children to be good global citizens.

I take this opportunity to thank O'Connor's nurses, carers, teachers and mentors, our police and emergency service workers and, of course, our dedicated volunteers. They are our true local heroes, making a difference to our communities every single day. Although the challenges we face right now are far from over, I reflect on how important it is in these times of adversity to continue to support one another. I hope this festive season sees you united with the ones you love, either in person or by technology across the miles, and I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy start to 2022.