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.
Cooranbong Public School was the first school established in Lake Macquarie, opening its doors to 38 students in 1861. Over the past 163 years, the school has served generations of families and developed a reputation for providing a caring and supportive school environment.…
I would like to acknowledge a truly outstanding achievement by Jessica and Wade Tracey, owners of the Morisset Newsagency, who for the second year in a row have been named Newsagent of the Year by the National Lotteries and Newsagents Association.…
It is with great sadness that I note the passing of a stalwart of the Lake Macquarie community, Ron Mitcherson. His life was one of exemplified courage, service and sacrifice. As a young man Ron served in the Army's Royal Australian Infantry Corps, completing a 12-month tour in Vietnam, where he faced unimaginable horrors while answering the call of duty.…
I would like to congratulate Lake Macquarie's very own wildlife warrior Audrey Koosmen who was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in this year's Kings Birthday Honours, for her services to animal welfare. Audrey is a remarkable woman.…
There's no doubt Lake Macquarie is one of the most naturally beautiful areas in our state, but like everywhere the aesthetic can take a hit when marred by rubbish left around by careless individuals.…
Since 1955 residents of New South Wales have been able to turn to the State Emergency Service in times of need, whether it's during or after devastating storms, floods or other natural disasters, we all rest a little easier knowing their help is at hand when we need it.…
I acknowledge the passing of former member for Charlton and my friend Kelly Joy Hoare. Kelly was elected to the House of Representatives for Charlton for the Australian Labor Party in 1998 and held the position until 2007, succeeding her father, Bob Brown. Kelly married Reg Hoare, and they went on to have two children, Naomi and Robert.…
Today I wish to acknowledge the volunteers behind the Heaven Can Wait – Charity Sailing Regatta, who for nearly two decades have filled their sails with the winds of generosity and raised desperately needed funds for their beneficiaries, Cancer Council NSW and Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie.…
Lake Macquarie is home to one of Australia's best mountain bike parks, namely the Awaba Mountain Bike Park, which is run and maintained by the Hunter Mountain Bike Association. Recently the Association hosted the 2024 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships, an event which attracted more than 1000 of Australia's best riders with junior, masters and expert categories.…
I would like to acknowledge the remarkable achievements and dedication to music education of Trish O'Hearn, musical director of Catalina Brass and Principal cornet of Toronto Brass.…