Every community has its quiet achievers. These are the people who volunteer their time, support their neighbours, and make a real difference without seeking recognition. This page is dedicated to celebrating some of these local legends and the outstanding contributions they make to our community.
I acknowledge the contributions to the State Emergency Service [SES] of former Lake Macquarie controller Darryl Marshall, who recently stepped down from the role after 27 years. Darryl has been part of the SES for 35 years and has received national recognition for his work.…
I congratulate vehicle painter Blair Watters of Speers Point on his performance in the recent international finals of the WorldSkills Competition in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Blair competed in the Vehicle Refinish category and was awarded a Medallion of Excellence for his work. No doubt his family, friends, employer and teachers at Glendale TAFE are extremely proud of his achievements.…
I pay my respects to the memory of Charles Lonergan of Brightwaters, a Lake Macquarie legend who passed away aged 101 last Sunday. I first met Charlie in the early 1980s and was taken with his passion for and deep knowledge of the history of his local area and community.…
On the afternoon of Tuesday 26 April a young woman was struck by a car at Warners Bay, causing serious injury. That young woman, 15-year-old Jade Frith, tragically died the following day in John Hunter Hospital. Jade lived with her family at Coal Point in Lake Macquarie and was, by all accounts, greatly loved by all her knew her.…
I pay tribute today to an extraordinary man who provides inspiration to many in the community. Bill Hall will celebrate his 104th birthday in November, yet he still lives independently in his Coal Point home. Bill is a legend in amateur radio circles and much loved by those who know him.…
Today I recognise young Lake Macquarie people who offer yet more proof that our future is in good hands. At the age of 11, Cejay Alsop found himself drawn to his father's back shed at their Silverwater home, which was equipped with an array of tools including welders and presses.…
Today I pay tribute to an extraordinary Lake Macquarie woman who has not only conquered her disability but also the sporting world. Marilyn Mills from Morisset was born with a genetic eye disease. As her sight deteriorated in early life, she turned to sports to find a physical outlet in a safe environment.…
I acknowledge an incredible community effort led by Jacinta Gomez from Morisset Park. Jacinta, whose mother, Kirsten, was a teacher at Wyee Public School, was 12 when she was diagnosed with cancer in April this year. Teachers and friends at neighbouring schools soon heard about the Gomez family's plight.…