Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

on indulgence—I rise briefly to pay tribute to Anna George. Anna George has been a formidable figure in the Labor Party's recent history. She began work here in 1989 for John Dawkins when he was education minister and then Treasurer. She went on to work for leaders of the opposition Kim Beazley, Simon Crean and Mark Latham, and then went on to work in the chief government or opposition whip's office for Roger Price, Joel Fitzgibbon and Chris Hayes.

I can't think of another staff member that I've seen in my time here, and indeed before when I was a staff member, who has contributed over such a long period of time as Anna George has. Her knowledge of the parliament and parliamentary procedures is second to none in the building. She always has a friendly demeanour. She organises when people should be in a particular place and makes sure that they're there, including here in this chamber. Anna George is a great human being. We will miss her dearly.

To Anna, who, when we presented her with flowers and champagne just before question time, said she was going to come back as a volunteer, I make this offer: you are welcome to come back not just as a volunteer but in any capacity whatsoever at any time. We thank you for your contribution. I thank the government for the indulgence.