Andrew Willcox (Dawson, Liberal National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This week we welcomed the GW3 delegation to Canberra. GW3 is an advocacy group led by CEO Kylie Porter. On this occasion, it was local government's turn to attend Parliament House. The group comprised Scott Owens, CEO of Mackay Regional Council—Mayor Greg Williamson sent his apologies; Mayor Kelly Vea Vea from Isaac Regional Council; Cale Dendle, CEO of Isaac Regional Council; Mayor Ry Collins from Whitsunday Regional Council; and Warren Bunker, CEO of Whitsunday Regional Council.

This powerful group met with opposition leader Peter Dutton, Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud, shadow infrastructure minister Bridget McKenzie, and many current ministers and advisers. The No. 1 priority that GW3 wanted to discuss was the need for an increase in funding for the Bruce Highway and the Peak Downs Highway. They spoke at multiple roundtables, calling for the federal government to reinstate the funding model where the federal government pays 80 per cent and the states pay 20 per cent. Currently, the Labor government is only funding fifty-fifty, which is clearly not enough. The coalition confirmed that, if elected, they would restore the funding to the traditional split.

GW3 highlighted the massive contribution that the region provides in both royalties and export earnings, and said very clearly that all they would like is a little bit of funding in return. That way they can keep doing what they're doing—providing prosperity for their area and all of Australia.

I often get calls or visits in my Dawson electorate from residents sharing matters that are close to their heart—like Sandy and Colin. Sadly, Colin's life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2007. But he's still living as best as he can. Sandy really wanted to go to 'Head to the Hill'—that event was to raise awareness about brain cancer—but she was unable to make it. So she reached out and asked me if I could attend on her behalf. Of course I said yes, without any hesitation.

The event was also a chance for political figures and community to come together to honour those who have sadly passed. The lawn in the courtyard at parliament was covered in shoes, which represented lives lost to brain cancer. I took the time to do a little message, which I sent off to Sandy and Colin, and I got a fantastic response back. Sandy: thank you very much for that lovely message you sent back to me. I really appreciate it. Colin: all the best—and a shout-out to former junior citizen of the year, their son, William.

I've had the honour this week of hosting Squadron Leader Michael Jones from the Royal Australian Air Force as part of the ADF parliamentary exchange program—and he's here with me in the chamber today. The ADF parliamentary exchange is a unique opportunity provided by parliament to members of our Defence Force. The exchange provides participants with an insight into parliamentary and committee processes and an understanding of departments that operate within Parliament House.

Michael has gained an appreciation of the extensive and varied activities undertaken by senators and members. Michael is the second ADF parliamentary exchange participant I've welcomed into my office. Previously I had a corporal from the Army, now I've got a squadron leader from the Air Force, and maybe at some point I might end up with someone from the Navy!

I really enjoy these opportunities to interact with our Defence Force, because they are truly fine, fine men and women who look after our country and keep us safe. Without them we really haven't got much.

I also had the chance to participate in the reciprocal ADF exchange program in Puckapunyal. I was looked after absolutely tremendously well. It's a tough gig, I tell you what! Those guys from the artillery range were picking up shells that were about 50 kilos, and they were throwing them around like they were lollies. Their strength and everything that the ADF put into their arrangements was unbelievable.

My heart goes out to the ADF. They keep us safe. They do an absolutely amazing job.

Last but not least, last night I was at a cocktail event where V8 Supercar driver and Australian Road Safety Foundation ambassador Craig Lowndes and Paralympian Ryley Batt were guest speakers. These guys talked about keeping safe on our roads. With Christmas just around the corner, I ask everybody to take their time, slow down and get their family home safe.