Tony Zappia (Makin, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On 16 April, 48-year-old Paul—aka Dusty—Miller died on the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. He was there on his second day of hiking with his son Aaron, raising money for Defence veterans. A former Defence member for some 26 years, Paul had served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Timor-Leste. Having had personal experience of the toll on those who serve, in retirement Paul devoted much of his life to supporting other veterans who were struggling through life. He became a prominent active member of Operation Unity, raising money and setting up support programs and activities for veterans and first responders. I understand that the Kokoda Track challenge was a fundraiser for Operation K9, which trains service dogs for veterans with PTSD symptoms.

Paul will be farewelled at a funeral service next Tuesday, 30 May, which regrettably, because of parliamentary sittings, I will not be able to attend. An additional service honouring and celebrating his life will be held by the Operation Unity team on 30 June. To Paul's partner, Amanda, and to his children, family members, many friends and Defence mates, I extend my condolences and my thanks for his tireless service. Vale, Paul Miller.