> Parliament > Parliamentary Speeches  

Parliamentary Speeches

News
  • Christmas felicitations 17th November 2022 In the same way that Independent members have been bringing adversaries together in this Chamber for some years, so too does the harmonious joy of the ... more
  • James Bird 17th November 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the excellent efforts that a small but dedicated group of Lake Macquarie residents made to clean up their local environment. James ... more
  • Zachary Wong 17th November 2022 I'd like to congratulate the exceptionally talented Zachary Wong from Charlton Christian College who has been nominated to have his HSC Major Artwork shown ... more
  • Government Sector Audit and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 15th November 2022 I turn briefly to the detail of the bill. I note that the "follow the dollar" powers extend to local governments as well as the State under the bill. That is important to the ... more
  • Question time: Climate change and energy policy 15th November 2022 Following his attendance at COP27, does he have any new understandings of how New South Wales will address climate change while ensuring sufficient and reliable ... more
  • Question time: Public Accounts Committee 10th November 2022 I thank the member for Sydney, my good friend, for his question, which certainly did surprise me. I thank him for his interest in the issues of public accountability ... more
  • Health services at Morisset 9th November 2022 On the hill at New Lambton Heights, straddling the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie boundaries, sits the John Hunter Hospital. It has many highly skilled surgeons and ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 9th November 2022 As Chair, I am pleased to speak on the Public Accounts Committee report No. 11/57 entitled Examination of the Auditor-General’s Performance Audit Reports June – ... more
  • 1: Port of Newcastle (Extinguishment of Liability) Bill 2022 8th November 2022 After listening to the contribution of members most would agree that the sale of the ports in 2013 and 2014 was a mistake. It was a mistake then and it is ... more
  • 2: Port of Newcastle (Extinguishment of Liability) Bill 2022 8th November 2022 I briefly contribute to debate on the Government amendments, as moved by the member for Ku-ring-gai, and commend them to the House. I have been in dialogue with ... more
  • Children and Young Persons (Care And Protection) Amendment (Family Is Culture) Bill 2022 8th November 2022 That was an outrageous failure and was clearly not good enough. Of course, these long-awaited reforms should only ever be about advancing the welfare of children ... more
  • Christine Mastello 8th November 2022 I want to acknowledge and thank the extraordinary Christine Mastello, founder and CEO of Southlakes Incorporated. Christine is a legend not only in Lake Macquarie but ... more
  • Peter Pan Preschool 8th November 2022 I'd like to congratulate Peter Pan Preschool at Wangi Wangi on its 60th anniversary. I was pleased to join with the preschool's directors Lynne Howard and Kristin Hopkins ... more
  • Lake Macquarie fish kills 20th October 2022 I have never been too shy in regaling the House about the beauty of Lake Macquarie and all the reasons so many people want to live along the beautiful waterway. But we ... more
  • Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Bill 2022 19th October 2022 I speak briefly in debate on the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Bill 2022, which I believe represents a significant and somewhat historic moment in our fight ... more
  • Dirk Spek 19th October 2022 I'd like to acknowledge and congratulate 60-year-old Dirk Spek on his retirement from Fire and Rescue New South Wales after a commendable career which spanned 34 ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 19th October 2022 I take note of the Public Accounts Committee's report on the quadrennial review of the Audit Office of New South Wales, which presents both the results of an external review ... more
  • Public Interest Debate: Gambling Advertising 19th October 2022 I note briefly the hypocrisy of governments across Australia around the issue of gaming, particularly online gaming. It should certainly be pointed out here in New South Wales. ... more
  • Question Time: Gambling Advertising 19th October 2022 My question is directed to the Minister for Hospitality and Racing. Given the insidious rise in the rate of gambling addiction in the State, when will New South Wales follow ... more
  • Port of Newcastle (Extinguishment of Liability) Bill 2022 13th October 2022 Mr Speaker I’m pleased to bring the Port of Newcastle (Extinguishment of Liability) Bill to the House. It’s a simple bill with a simple intent, but that simplicity belies the fact that it’s passage will provide profound benefits to NSW into the future. ... more
  • Carly Shiels and Luke Marks 11th October 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the fundraising efforts of two of Lake Macquarie's inspiring young residents, Carly Shiels and Luke Marks. Carly from Wangi Wangi and Luke from Speers ... more
  • Question Time: Port of Newcastle 11th October 2022 I direct my question to the Premier. Given the ACCC has described the privatisation deals on the State's ports as "inherently anti-competitive" and the Productivity ... more
  • Vicki Raciti 11th October 2022 I'd like to acknowledge Vicki Raciti of Wangi Wangi for her tireless work and dedication shown after severe weather devastated parts of NSW. Our state recently suffered ... more
  • Dora Creek Bridge and intersection 21st September 2022 Back in June, businesses in Dora Creek, in my electorate, were finally beginning the long recovery from COVID-related shutdowns. The small shopping strip is ... more
  • Eddie Westfall 20th September 2022 I'd like to congratulate 18-year-old Eddie Westfall from Morisset High School who recently took out the gold medal in the NSW State Open Boys Tennis Championships. ... more
  • Vicki Carr 20th September 2022 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—I'd like to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of an amazing Lake Macquarie local, Vicky Carr. Vicky is the vice-chair ... more
  • Wangi Wangi Bakehouse 20th September 2022 It's always pleasing to see local businesses stepping up to help their local community so I'd like to acknowledge Wangi Wangi Bakehouse for doing just that. ... more
  • Sailability Toronto 10th August 2022 I'd like to acknowledge and thank Sailability Toronto for the incredible service they provide to the Lake Macquarie community. As most of my constituents live on ... more
  • Carl Gibbons 9th August 2022 I'd like to congratulate 26-year-old Carl Gibbons from Westlakes Athletics Club who has represented Australia on the world stage for the second time this year. Last ... more
  • Max Bradbury 9th August 2022 It's always pleasing to see Lake Macquarie's home-grown junior sporting talent turning their dreams into reality, so I'd like to acknowledge rising rugby league star Max ... more
  • Toronto Men's Shed 9th August 2022 Toronto Men's Shed has been operating in Lake Macquarie since June 2011 and during that time has provided a space for men of all ages to gather and socialise while ... more
  • Frank Kitcher 23rd June 2022 I'd like to congratulate Francis Kitcher from Speers Point on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen's Birthday 2022 Honours List. Frank, as he is more commonly known to friends and family, was recognised for his services ... more
  • Housing crisis in Lake Macquarie 23rd June 2022 By the time I return to my electorate after a week here in Parliament, the median price of a house in many Lake Macquarie suburbs will have gone up by another thousand ... more
  • Peter McGeoch 23rd June 2022 I'd like to congratulate Dr Peter McGeoch from Fishing Point on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen's Birthday 2022 Honours List.Peter was recognised for his services to ... more
  • Anna Noon 22nd June 2022 In a time of rising living costs and expensive fresh produce, I'd like to acknowledge the efforts of Anna Noon from Wakefield who has created a 'seed library' for Lake Macquarie residents. The seed library is a community-led initiative which encourages ... more
  • Dennis Blanch 22nd June 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of Dennis Blanch from Rathmines in fostering the growth of the visual arts scene in Lake Macquarie. Last year, while we were living with the challenges of the ... more
  • Morisset High Agriculture Students 22nd June 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the work and dedication of Morisset High School's agriculture students in Years 9 and 10, along with their teachers Peter Hillard and Ali Peacock who raised some very special poultry. Three Hy-Line Brown chickens were selected ... more
  • Barbara and Kevin Weimer 21st June 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the tremendous work done by Barbara and Kevin Weimer from Bolton Point in championing the sport of tennis throughout Lake Macquarie. Barbara and Kevin created the Bolton Point Tennis Club almost 50 years ago and since ... more
  • Dianne Sykes 21st June 2022 I wish to acknowledge and thank the wonderful Dianne Sykes who worked in my electorate office at Toronto since I was first elected 15 years ago. Dianne was my Senior Electorate Officer for all of that time but has now retired to allow more time with ... more
  • Our Backyard Project 21st June 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the efforts of the dedicated team of volunteers behind the Our Backyard Project in Cardiff. Homelessness is a huge problem in Lake Macquarie, and one that the Our Backyard Project ... more
  • Ian Lowe 9th June 2022 I'd like to acknowledge and thank Ian Lowe from Cooranbong. Ian is a remarkable man who served 30 years as an SES operator, including a lengthy stint as captain of the SES Cooranbong Unit. Over the years his superiors called on his skills, knowledge, ... more
  • Parliamentary Budget Officer Amendment Bill 2022 9th June 2022 I am not going to say I am happy to speak in debate on the Parliamentary Budget Officer Amendment Bill 2022 because it has become much more confusing than we hoped it would be. The member for Heffron has included some very sensible ... more
  • 25th anniversary of the apology to the Stolen Generation 8th June 2022 I acknowledge that we meet today on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. I also acknowledge that I represent a community that is founded on the traditional lands of the Awabakal people. I pay tribute to those Aboriginal people ... more
  • Social and Affordable Housing in Lake Macquarie 8th June 2022 My question is directed to the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Homes. Given the dire housing crisis in New South Wales, what is the Government doing to meet the critical demand for social and affordable housing ... more
  • Government Grants Administration Bill 2021 19th May 2022 I want to make it very clear—and I think it is fair to say I am also speaking on behalf of the member for Sydney and the member for Wagga Wagga, having had a number ... more
  • Health services in south Lake Macquarie 19th May 2022 The State Government is currently spending almost $1 billion on further expanding the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. In anyone's language, spending that sort of ... more
  • Geoff and Helen See 18th May 2022 I'd like to acknowledge Geoff and Helen See for the many years of dedication they've given to the Lake Macquarie Rural Fire Service Welfare Brigade. Geoff and Helen ... more
  • Report of the Public Accounts Commitee 18th May 2022 This take-note debate will deal with both the financial audit reports 2020 and the performance audit reports August 2019 to June 2020. In May 2021, the Public ... more
  • Charlton Christian College Leadership Team 10th May 2022 I'd like to acknowledge 10 accomplished young students from Charlton Christian College on their appointment to the school's 2022 leadership team. Georgia Craig ... more
  • Felix Kozakiewicz 10th May 2022 It's not every day that I find myself acknowledging a young man on mastering the art of age-old weaponry, but Felix Kozakiewicz is worthy of recognition for his exceptional ... more
  • GP services in the Lake Macquarie electorate 10th May 2022 Last week I received an email from a constituent who lives at Cooranbong with her husband and two young boys. Amy's email was among a dozen I received in the past ... more
  • Len Wood 10th May 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the passing of Leonard James Alexander Wood from Wyee who was a highly respected and much-loved community member. Known to friends ... more
  • Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Amendment (Family Is Culture Review) Bill 2021 31st March 2022 I'm pleased to introduce a set of landmark reforms to child protection laws in New South Wales. The proposals in the bill are all based on the recommendations of the Family is Culture report, authored by leading First Nations ... more
  • Amendments - Mining and Petroleum Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 30th March 2022 I am broadly supportive of the bill, as I expressed earlier, but following consultation with a number of external groups who have been very concerned about some of these issues, I propose minor adjustments to elements around the framework ... more
  • Heritage College Year 10 Geography 30th March 2022 It's always wonderful to see young people taking an active interest in their environment and working to improve local habitats. I'd like to congratulate a group of ... more
  • Mining and Petroleum Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 30th March 2022 Mining occurs right around the State, and I do not want to understate the impact and significance of coalmining in areas to the west, to the south and even the historic areas to the north. It is time that we took those matters seriously. ... more
  • Re-ordering of general business 30th March 2022 This bill has emanated from the other place, where it was introduced by Mr David Shoebridge. It is a response to a report entitled Family is Culture: Independent Review into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and ... more
  • Greater Cities Commission Bill 2022 29th March 2022 I have been known to be somewhat painfully parochial about Lake Macquarie, particularly in my time in local government and as mayor of the City of Lake Macquarie, which had a large population at the time ... more
  • Mandalong Rd and Speers Point roundabout 29th March 2022 The town of Morisset and surrounds has some $1.2 billion of private investment in a number of large and exciting projects being placed at risk due to the appalling lack of investment in public roads and infrastructure in the area. ... more
  • Change to standing order 365 24th March 2022 I make a brief contribution to debate and particularly acknowledge the member for Heffron and the Leader of the House, whom we have been negotiating with on the matter this morning. The Independents have agreed that this is a worthy ... more
  • Question Time: Eraring Power Station 23rd March 2022 My question is directed to the Treasurer and Minister for Energy. Given that Origin Energy has signalled an intention to close the State's largest coal-fired power station, at Eraring, in 2025—up to seven years early—what is the Government ... more
  • Avondale School Challenge students 22nd March 2022 We've all been saddened to see the devastating impacts the recent floods have had on communities in our State's north. I'd like to acknowledge the thoughtfulness and efforts of ... more
  • Kerrin Rumore 22nd March 2022 I'd like to congratulate Kerrin Rumore who has been named Lake Macquarie's 2022 Local Woman of the Year. I have known Kerrin for many years and she is a truly wonderful person. For the past 35 years she has tirelessly ... more
  • Lake Macquarie energy industry 22nd March 2022 Almost 14 years ago to the day, not long after I was first elected to the New South Wales Parliament, I stood on this very spot in this Chamber during question time and asked then Premier Morris Iemma about the recommendations of ... more
  • Caleb Baker 16th February 2022 I'd like to extend my congratulations to an extraordinary young man who topped the State in last year's Retail Services exam for the Higher School Certificate. Caleb ... more
  • Harry and Christine Spurr 16th February 2022 It's not every day that people have the courage and strength to follow their dreams, but I'm proud to say that's exactly what one of my youngest constituents and his ... more
  • Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre 16th February 2022 I wish to update the House on a matter I first raised in this Chamber in 2019. In March of that year, while the Government was in caretaker mode, the Office of Sport ... more
  • Sam Smith 16th February 2022 I'd like to acknowledge the efforts that nine-year-old Sam Smith from Bonnells Bay has made to help dozens of local families in need. Sam has collected ... more
  • Hayden Perks 15th February 2022 I want to commend and acknowledge the heroic actions of Hayden Perks from Morisset Park after he saved a family of nine from drowning on Boxing Day 2021. ... more
  • Peri Roberts 15th February 2022 Lake Macquarie has a proud history of producing world champions and I'd like to congratulate 22-year-old Peri Roberts from Coal Point after winning the Kite Surfing ... more
  • Repair It Lake Mac 15th February 2022 In an age where so many things are disposable and we tend to throw away old possessions rather than repair them, it's heartening to see one Lake Macquarie ... more
  • Alby Roberts 26th November 2021 I wish one of Lake Macquarie's most beloved sailors, Alby Roberts, a very happy 92nd birthday. I have known Alby for many years and have always been impressed ... more
  • Keith Hill 26th November 2021 I'd like to offer my very best wishes to Keith Eric Hill from Cooranbong on his recent 100th birthday. Becoming a centenarian is an in incredible milestone and one very few ... more
  • Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 - Debate 25th November 2021 I appreciate the member for Riverstone at least conceding that this may not be the best amendment. We agree. That is one of the reasons why the member for Sydney ... more
  • Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 - Debate 25th November 2021 I thank the member for Fairfield for moving his amendment. The co-sponsors of the bill have considered the amendment and we will not support it. We have heard ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 24th November 2021 As Chair: I take note of the Public Accounts Committee's [PAC] report entitled Follow-up Review of the Management of NSW Public Housing Maintenance Contracts. ... more
  • Regional Housing 24th November 2021 By leave: I thank all members in the Chamber who are contributing to this very important debate. I note the contribution of the Minister, and member for Tamworth. He ... more
  • Workers Compensation Amendment Bill 2021 24th November 2021 I feel compelled to contribute to debate on the Workers Compensation Amendment Bill 2021 and to explain why I do not support it. In making a few comments on the bill, ... more
  • Biraban Public School 23rd November 2021 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—Learning to love nature and finding new ways of protecting and nurturing our natural environment is something I believe is very important ... more
  • Cooranbong Public School 23rd November 2021 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—I'd like to congratulate the staff and students at Cooranbong Public School on their big push towards making the school environmentally ... more
  • St John Vianney Primary School 23rd November 2021 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—It's always pleasing to see young people taking active steps to improve our natural world, so I'd like to extend my congratulations to ... more
  • Wendy Harrison 23rd November 2021 I'd like to acknowledge and congratulate Cr Wendy Harrison on her retirement as a councillor from Lake Macquarie City Council after 17 years of service. ... more
  • Government Sector Finance Amendment (Government Grants) Bill 2021 18th November 2021 Members would be denying reality if they said it was not necessary. It would be nice if politics was more transparent, but the bill presents an opportunity to start that process. ... more
  • Lake Macquarie roads 17th November 2021 Like many regional areas Lake Macquarie has undergone an enormous transformation in recent decades, and with that has come significant population ... more
  • Griffin Smith 16th November 2021 Known among his family and friends as a "super sniffer", nine-year-old Griffin Smith from Boolaroo has put his naturally good sense of smell to excellent use and created ... more
  • Miah Edwards 16th November 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the young entrepreneurial efforts of Miah Edwards from Boolaroo. At the age of just 11, Miah has found her passion in designing and creating ... more
  • Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 12th November 2021 I have been involved in this very important matter for a long time now, though I know my involvement pales by comparison with many in the community who have ... more
  • Southlakes Incorporated 11th November 2021 I acknowledge, and not for the first time, the wonderful work being done by Southlakes Incorporated, led by the incredible Christine Mastello. Southlakes ... more
  • ADRA Op-Shop 10th November 2021 I'd like to acknowledge and thank the most wonderful team of volunteers behind a truly remarkable venture operating in Morisset. Run by Paul Rankin and staffed by ... more
  • Jack Moir 10th November 2021 Lake Macquarie has a new mountain biking world champion in Jack Moir from Yarrawonga Park who took out the 2021 Enduro World Series in Scotland last month. ... more
  • Peter (Alfie) Jacobson 10th November 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the passing of a true gentleman and one of the founding members of South Lake Macquarie Amateur Sailing Club, Peter Jacobson, who was ... more
  • Wyee Community Hub 10th November 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the many wonderful people associated with efforts to establish the new Wyee Community Hub at Wyee. Once complete, this volunteer-run function ... more
  • Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Bill 2021 9th November 2021 It is now more than 14 years since I first started speaking and asking questions in this Chamber about plastics and their impact on our natural environment and human ... more
  • Question Time: Hunter GP Access 9th November 2021 My question is directed to the Minister for Health. With Hunter Primary Care having announced closure or reduced operating hours for some GP access after-hours ... more
  • Dallas Rodney Lock 19th October 2021 For more than two decades, Dallas Rodney Lock from Bolton Point has been engaged in a labour of love to create and maintain one of the most picturesque sites on Lake ... more
  • Kevin Stokes 19th October 2021 I'd like to congratulate Kevin Stokes from Toronto who was named the 2021 Senior Hunter Volunteer of the Year at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. Kevin was ... more
  • Covid response in Lake Macquarie 12th October 2021 It is great to be back in the House representing the people of Lake Macquarie. One hundred and ten days ago, along with other members of this House, I ended up isolated in my office here for a while before spending two weeks in full isolation at home, having been deemed a close contact of the member... ... more
  • Peter Bateup 24th June 2021 I'd like to acknowledge Peter Bateup of Wyee following his retirement from Central Coast District Rural Fire Service. Peter's distinguished career with RFS spanning 53 ... more
  • Maureen Turner 22nd June 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the wonderful efforts of Maureen Turner from Toronto. Last year I had the pleasure of meeting Maureen through U3A, but I didn't learn until ... more
  • Michelle Teear 22nd June 2021 I acknowledge the extraordinary talents of Blackalls Park artist Michelle Teear. Michelle's striking landscape paintings capture the raw essence of the Australian ... more
  • Question Time: social housing 22nd June 2021 Notwithstanding the budget investments announced today, what further measures will the Government undertake to ensure that those most affected by the housing crisis ... more
  • Housing Affordability 9th June 2021 There really is no dispute that parts of this State are currently experiencing a housing crisis which they have not seen for many decades, possibly not since the Great Depression ... more
  • Fellowship of Australian Writers 8th June 2021 I congratulate Lake Macquarie Branch of Australian Writers which was recently named as a finalist for the 2021 Lake Mac Artist and Creator award. In particular I'd ... more
  • Lois Simpson 8th June 2021 Lois Simpson from Toronto has worked tirelessly to protect flora and fauna throughout Lake Macquarie for more than two decades. She has volunteered with ... more
  • Ann-Maria Martin 13th May 2021 Domestic violence is a scourge on our society and unfortunately in Lake Macquarie the rate of domestic violence is higher than the State average. I'd like to acknowledge ... more
  • Gwen Johnston 13th May 2021 Along with many others in the Toronto area, I was saddened by the recent passing of Gwen Johnston of Blackalls Park. Gwen was an extraordinary woman who stood up ... more
  • Ben Jenkinson 12th May 2021 I'd like to offer my congratulations to Benjamin Jenkinson from Rathmines on winning this year's Lake Mac Sports Leader Award. The award acknowledges his outstanding ... more
  • Jonathon Power 11th May 2021 Every now and then an extraordinary person comes along who is determined to make a difference in the lives of people who need it most. Jonathon Power from Cardiff is ... more
  • Toronto Adventist School 11th May 2021 It's important that children grow up to appreciate the value of a dollar, so I was pleased to learn about the entrepreneurial efforts of some budding young green ... more
  • Legacy contamination sites - Boolaroo 6th May 2021 My question is directed to the Minister for Energy and Environment. What is the Government doing to ensure that legacy contamination, including coal ash and ... more
  • Civil Liability Amendment (Child Abuse) Bill 2021 5th May 2021 Similar legislation has already been passed in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania, thereby affording the victims of institutional abuse in ... more
  • Ian Edwards 5th May 2021 I'd like to acknowledge Ian Edwards from Speers Point for his efforts in not only overcoming adversity but making life better for many others. Also known as The Blind ... more
  • Max Mitchell 5th May 2021 I'd like to acknowledge and congratulate Assistant Commissioner Max Mitchell on his outstanding 40-year career with the NSW Police Force. Max's retirement was announced ... more
  • Christine Langshaw 4th May 2021 Throughout the ages people have knitted both alone and socially, and I'm pleased to say that one Lake Macquarie woman has used her skill to bring together not only ... more
  • John Benning 4th May 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the passing of a wonderfully community-minded man, John Benning of Toronto. John was just 79 years old when he suddenly passed, leaving ... more
  • Police numbers in NSW and Lake Macquarie 4th May 2021 Given the Government's four-year commitment of $580 million for 1,500 additional police officers prior to the last election, will the Minister update the House on how ... more
  • Awesome Lake Mac 25th March 2021 I'd like to congratulate the team of volunteers behind Awesome Lake Mac on their outstanding contribution to their community and for winning the 2021 Lake Macquarie ... more
  • George Lopes 25th March 2021 Each year, 870 tonnes of copiers and printers are decommissioned. The majority of their plastics sadly end up in landfill. I'm pleased to say that one Lake Macquarie ... more
  • Lisa Greissl 24th March 2021 Being diagnosed with cancer is something everyone fears, but remains a sad reality for one out of every two Australians. I'd like to acknowledge the excellent work being ... more
  • Melody Jones 24th March 2021 I'd like to congratulate Melody Jones from Coal Point on winning the 2021 Lake Mac Artist and Creator Award. Melody is an exceptionally talented artist. She creates ... more
  • NSW Women of the Year Awards 24th March 2021 Mark Twain famously posed the question: Where would we be without women? Twain answered his own question with, "Scarce, sir. Very scarce." While entirely true, this ... more
  • Local Government Amendment Bill 2021 23rd March 2021 I am fortunate enough to have had local government experience. I spent eight years and five months of my 21 years at Lake Macquarie City Council as the mayor. At the ... more
  • Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Amendment (Coercive Control—Preethi’s Law) Bill 2020 18th March 2021 Firstly, I know there is not a single member in this House who is not extremely concerned about the atrocious and unacceptable rate of domestic violence against ... more
  • Les Fielding 18th March 2021 I'd like to pay tribute to Les Fielding from Toronto who passed away recently and extend my sympathy to his wife Marcia, sons Brian and Michael, daughters-in-law ... more
  • Max Bristow 18th March 2021 For some people, age really is no barrier to accomplishing amazing feats of fitness and strength. 77-year-old Max Baristow of Blackalls Park is one such person. For ... more
  • Public Accountability Committee 17th March 2021 As Chair: In accordance with its legislative responsibility outlined in section 57 of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983, the Public Accounts Committee resolved at its ... more
  • Avondale High School Captains 16th March 2021 It's always wonderful to see young people accept responsibility and become leaders, whether it's within their immediate friendship group, broader school class or indeed ... more
  • Laurene Mulcahy 16th March 2021 I often wonder how some people find the time to get everything done as they commit their days to going above and beyond, not just for family and friends, but for their ... more
  • Peter Bousles 18th February 2021 I'd like to acknowledge a man who has personally been responsible for making sure countless Lake Macquarie residents are dressed to impress with clean and perfectly ... more
  • Tracy Thomas 18th February 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the accomplishments of internationally acclaimed artist Tracy Thomas from Fishing Point. Tracy's art adorns walls all over the world. Most notably ... more
  • Eraring Power Station's energy storage battery 17th February 2021 A little over a month ago, Origin Energy announced plans to build an energy storage battery at Eraring Power Station in my electorate. This battery will be able to store ... more
  • Shark attack heroes acknowledged 17th February 2021 In times of crisis, it's the actions of ordinary people who often make the difference between life and death. I'd like to acknowledge the heroic efforts of the residents of ... more
  • Tribute to Saretta Fielding 17th February 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the outstanding talent of nationally acclaimed and multi award-winning artist Saretta Fielding from Toronto. Saretta is an Aboriginal woman ... more
  • Morisset High School Captains 16th February 2021 I'd like to congratulate four outstanding students from Morisset High School who have been elected as the school's 2021 Captains and Vice-Captains. Bryce Webber and ... more
  • Question Time: Coal ash dams 16th February 2021 With understandable increasing community concern about the massive and growing stockpiles of coal ash from thermal power station, what is the Government doing to ... more
  • Road Transport Legislation Amendment (Drink and Drug Driving Offence) Bill 2021 16th February 2021 It is a great shame to debate the Road Transport Legislation Amendment (Drink and Drug Driving Offence) Bill 2021 in response to such a tragedy in our community. It is ... more
  • Tribute to Charlton Christian College 16th February 2021 I'd like to congratulate the 10 Charlton Christian College students who have been selected to form the school's 2021 leadership team. Harrison Allwood, Anthony ... more
  • Nico Marcar and Lake Macquarie Sustainable Neighbourhood Alliance 10th February 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the hard work of the volunteers behind Lake Macquarie Sustainable Neighbourhood Alliance based at Toronto, and in particular Nico Marcar ... more
  • Tribute to Victoria Ellis and Brandon Joynson 10th February 2021 It's always wonderful to see young people accept responsibility and become leaders, whether it's within their immediate friendship group, broader school class or their ... more
  • Social housing in Lake Macquarie 9th February 2021 In a positive start to the year, last month at Cardiff I was joined by the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, the Hon. Gareth Ward, to officially ... more
  • Tribute to Beverly Cowdroy 9th February 2021 I'm honoured to acknowledge the efforts of a wonderful woman from Kilaben Bay who has devoted more than 45 years of her life to volunteering in the community, while at ... more
  • Tribute to Horace 'Taffy' Davies 9th February 2021 I'd like to acknowledge the passing of Horace 'Taffy' Davies from Bonnells Bay who was just months away from his 100th birthday. Taffy was a truly wonderful man who ... more
  • Appropriation (Parliament) Bill 2020 27th November 2020 I advise the House that I have communicated with my Independent colleagues, the member for Sydney and the member for Wagga Wagga, and they concur with the ... more
  • Peninsula Rural Fire Service 19th November 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the super-human efforts displayed by Peninsula Rural Fire Brigade during the 2019 – 2020 bushfire season. The brigade's 43 members did not ... more
  • Victoria Ellis and Brandon Joynson 19th November 2020 I'd like to congratulate Toronto High School's Victoria Ellis and Brandon Joynson on their recent election as the school's 2021 School Captains. Victoria is widely ... more
  • Drug Supply Prohibition Order Pilot Scheme Bill 2020 18th November 2020 The bill contains a number of elements of significant concern. Most importantly, I have great concerns about the bill as it relates to juveniles or offences committed as ... more
  • Electricity Infrastructure Investment Bill 2020 17th November 2020 The unity ticket on the Electricity Infrastructure Investment Bill 2020 has just had a slight blip. Despite the resounding kicking that the member for Upper Hunter has just ... more
  • Anna Mason 12th November 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the invaluable support provided by the friends and families of our Rural Fire Service brigade members, particularly during the catastrophic bushfires ... more
  • Samantha Cross and Plastic Police 12th November 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the revolutionary work of Plastic Police founder Samantha Cross from Lakelands. For the past five years Samantha and her small team have ... more
  • Chris Kuszelyk 11th November 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the contribution of Toronto resident Chris Kuszelyk to the expansion and development of cricket in Lake Macquarie. For more than a decade ... more
  • Electricity Infrastructure Investment Bill 2020 11th November 2020 I flag that I will propose an amendment to establish a new renewable energy source [RES] in the Hunter region. However, that may be superseded by other amendments. ... more
  • Wangi Wangi VIEW Club 11th November 2020 There was just one new VIEW club registered in NSW during 2020 and that club is in my electorate. I would like to acknowledge and congratulate the remarkable women ... more
  • Aerial firefighting fleet at Lake Macquarie 10th November 2020 Lake Macquarie is home to Skyline Aviation Group, which recently acquired 11 Royal Australian Navy [RAN] surplus Seahawk helicopters and is reconfiguring them ... more
  • Question time: NSW bushfire inquiry 10th November 2020 My question without notice is directed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Given the recent findings of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry and the royal ... more
  • Tribute to Audrey Koosmen 10th November 2020 I'm honoured to acknowledge the monumental work of Audrey Koosman from Blackalls Park who is a truly remarkable woman and a genuine local hero. Audrey is ... more
  • Vale Ronnie Peel 10th November 2020 It's with sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Wakefield resident, Australian singer and musician Ronnie Peel, also remembered by some as Rockwell T James. ... more
  • Covid-19 and Lake Macquarie Electorate 21st October 2020 In March I did not imagine I would be standing here in October to talk about how pleased I was that COVID?19 has not claimed a single life in my electorate. Nor did I ... more
  • Dylan Shoesmith 21st October 2020 Dylan Shoesmith from Cardiff South is an outstanding and inspirational young member of the Lake Macquarie community. The 20-year-old has been advocating for ... more
  • Local Land Services Amendment (Miscellaneous) Bill 2020 21st October 2020 From listening to the debate one would think that opposing the bill is equivalent to being anti?farmer. That is just not the case. I do not believe that is ... more
  • Lake Macquarie Rowing Club 20th October 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the excellent work of the volunteers at Lake Macquarie Rowing Club at Booragul who have worked tirelessly to promote and develop their ... more
  • Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2020 20th October 2020 Given the current circumstances and the doubts about the integrity of this House and this Parliament more broadly, it is appropriate that we clarify the expectations that the ... more
  • Lake Macquarie Landcare 15th October 2020 I'd like to acknowledge the wonderful and vital work undertaken by Lake Macquarie Landcare Volunteer Network Incorporated under the guidance of current chairman ... more
  • Coal ash dams 14th October 2020 Throughout New South Wales right now about 200 million tonnes of coal ash is being stored in unlined dams. It is by far the biggest waste product generated in Australia ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 14th October 2020 The committee of reports from the Auditor-General is very important to the accountability of the Executive Government and government agencies. Reports are ... more
  • Tribute to Parkinson's Support Group 14th October 2020 I would like to acknowledge the excellent work and tireless efforts of the lead volunteers behind the Newcastle Parkinson's Support Group. Among those ... more
  • Tribute to Rotary Club of Morisset's Masketeers 14th October 2020 I wish to acknowledge the excellent work of the Rotary Club of Morisset's "Masketeers" who are seamlessly led by club president Margaret Johnson, Masketeer ... more
  • Warnervale Airport (Restrictions) Repeal Bill 2020 14th October 2020 Let there be no mistake: Wyong Council illegally extended the runway so that any subsequent problems being experienced by the aero club or the aerodrome itself ... more
  • Liquor Amendment (24-hour Economy) Bill 2020 23rd September 2020 From the outset I say that I support this bill, which I believe will go a long way towards bringing some element of closure to the long-running debate about the State's 24-hour economy, and in particular the controversial lockout laws, liquor licence renewals and other emerging issues around the sal... ... more
  • Question time: social housing in Lake Macquarie 22nd September 2020 Given that Lake Macquarie is experiencing an increase in public housing maintenance complaints, including mould, mildew and sewer, can the Minister assure ... more
  • No confidence motion - John Barilaro 16th September 2020 I acknowledge the construction of this motion of no confidence moved by the Leader of the Opposition. I think this motion is inherently supportable prima facie. ... more
  • Adoption Legislation Amendment (Integrated Birth Certificates) Bill 2020 15th September 2020 I acknowledge that the bill is a significant reform and step forward for many adoptees who have lobbied for it. However, other adoptees still will slip through the cracks ... more
  • Costco to bring huge economic boost to Lake Macquarie 5th August 2020 I am very pleased to inform the House today that we have seen the first significant step derived from that bill. That step will see an estimated $300 million annually in ... more
  • Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre 28th July 2020 On 29 March last year while the Government was in caretaker mode, the New South Wales Office of Sport evacuated and closed Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre ... more
  • Question time: short-term holiday letting 28th July 2020 Given that it is almost two years since draft regulations were developed for the short?term holiday letting industry code of conduct, when will the Government ... more
  • Constitution Amendment (Water Accountability and Transparency) Bill 2020 17th June 2020 The very notion that they cannot manage what the environment provides has clearly brought us to the problems with the Murray-Darling. It is a diabolical mess that ... more
  • State economy 17th June 2020 In Lake Macquarie, where unemployment—in particular youth unemployment—was higher than the State average pre-COVID, and where contractions in the tourism, ... more
  • Public Interest Debate - Covid-19 16th June 2020 We still have a long way to go in fighting COVID-19. We know that the economic recovery will be long, complicated and difficult for many people. I acknowledge ... more
  • Lest we forget Harry Buckley 3rd June 2020 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) (16:54:25): Along with many in the Lake Macquarie community, I was saddened by the recent passing of Harry Buckley. ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 3rd June 2020 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) (12:51:18): As chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, it gives me pleasure to lead in the take-note debate on the report entitled ... more
  • Tribute to Graham Hudson 3rd June 2020 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—Graham Hudson has had a very big impact on a very large number of people. The well-known and well-respected teacher last ... more
  • Tribute to David Woods and Wangi Bakehouse 2nd June 2020 The idea of wasting perfectly good beer is a bridge too far for many, especially for David Woods and the Wangi Bakehouse he co-owns. With the doors closing on ... more
  • COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures) BILL 2020 (and others) 12th May 2020 There is a particular need to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community, including the homeless, low-income families, renters, and those who may suffer ... more
  • Question time: economic recovery for regional NSW 12th May 2020 Will the Premier explain to the House what her Government will be doing to ensure that areas such as Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the Hunter are not ... more
  • Suspension of standing and sessional orders 12th May 2020 We would be one of the least accountable, least open jurisdictions in the world today. That is a real concern and it can be addressed. I appreciate ... more
  • Covid-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures) Bill 2020 24th March 2020 These are extraordinary times and that has been noted. While the times weigh heavily on us, it is the responsibility of each and every one of us ... more
  • Tribute to Erica Henley and Operation Hope 27th February 2020 I wish to acknowledge the wonderful work of Coal Point resident Erica Henley and a small group of volunteers behind Operation Hope in Lake Macquarie. ... more
  • Public Interest Debate: NSW Bushfires 26th February 2020 In this day and age there are probably very few things that pique public interest as much as the threat of fire and the impact of the fires that have ... more
  • Tribute to Bob Marks and Karl Zalewski 25th February 2020 I wish to acknowledge Bob Marks and Karl Zalewski who have proven that good things can often come from heartbreaking tragedy. Last November, ... more
  • Condolence motion: NSW bushfires 6th February 2020 It has indeed been the summer of heartache for the people of New South Wales. It has been a summer of unprecedented bushfire emergency ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 5th February 2020 As Chair, I lead on the report entitled Examination of the Auditor's-General's Performance Audit Reports ... more
  • Question Time: Eraring Power Station 4th February 2020 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) (15:08:39): My question is directed to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. Given that the Independent ... more
  • Wyee Point Rural Fire Brigade 21st November 2019 I was very honoured to attend the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Wyee Point Rural Fire Brigade last month, and even more honoured to catch up with the brigade's founder and inaugural president Graeme King. ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee - Post-Election Report 20th November 2019 This was the third post-election report from the Parliamentary Budget Officer, with other reports having come following the 2011 and 2015 elections. And we now have this report after the 2019 election. ... more
  • Tribute to Avondale University College 14th November 2019 Avondale College has been an important and integral part of the Lake Macquarie community for more than 122 years, but I’m very pleased to inform the House that the college is now known as the Avondale University College. ... more
  • Catastrophic fire conditions 12th November 2019 I speak to this very important public interest debate on the fires and critical, unique situation we are experiencing in New South Wales right now. This situation ... more
  • Plastic Shopping Bags (Prohibition on Supply by Retailers) Bill 2019 24th October 2019 This is a really important issue and it is something that I have been involved with for very many years. It was almost literally a slap in the face when I came to understand the extent of the problem of plastics in our environment. ... more
  • Coal ash strategy 22nd October 2019 Given that coal-fired power stations in New South Wales produce up to an estimated 8 million tonnes of coal ash every year, yet typically repurpose less than 30 per cent of it, will the Minister act to ... more
  • Music Festivals Bill 2019 22nd October 2019 The bill does not address the elephant in the room. In fact, it does not address a number of elephants in the room. I am concerned the bill will long be remembered for what it does not achieve rather than what it does. ... more
  • Coal Point Naturespace and Community Hub 17th October 2019 I wish to congratulate the Coal Point community and public school which recently secured more than $198,000 in funding to create a local Naturespace and community hub. ... more
  • Motorcycle Awareness Month 17th October 2019 Motorcycle Awareness Month was officially launched this morning in The Domain off Hospital Road. I attend the annual ride by the Motorcycle Council of NSW to officially launch Motorcycle Awareness Month with parliamentarians each year. ... more
  • Tribute to Toronto Community Kitchen 16th October 2019 Every night in Lake Macquarie, an estimated 400 people are experiencing homelessness and do not have access to a proper meal. I am very grateful to organisations such as the Development and Relief Agency ... more
  • Wyee Rural Fire Brigade 16th October 2019 I always enjoy catching up with firefighters in the Lake Macquarie area, particularly at significant events such as the recent official opening of the brigade's new station, where I had the privilege of representing the emergency services Minister. ... more
  • Road Transport Amendment (Mobile Phone Detection) Bill 2019 15th October 2019 Between 2012 and 2016, 21 people were killed and 307 were seriously injured in road accidents in Lake Macquarie and between 2017 and 2018 a further 18 were killed. ... more
  • Tribute to Jack Callaghan 15th October 2019 I wish to acknowledge the efforts of Morisset teenager Jack Callaghan who recently became the youngest ever winner of Newcastle Harness Racing’s driver’s premiership. ... more
  • Remediation of LT Creek at Fassifern 26th September 2019 LT Creek is a relatively short but significant waterway that flows into Lake Macquarie via Fennell Bay in my electorate. It is an important and substantial local catchment which has become significantly impacted by sedimentation over time. ... more
  • Tribute to Brian Finlay 26th September 2019 I wish to acknowledge a wonderful member of the Dora Creek community who caused quite a stir last week when he hung up his butcher’s apron for a life in retirement. ... more
  • Right to Farm Bill 2019 25th September 2019 I believe property owners generally have a fundamental right to keep unwanted, uninvited and sometimes militant trespassers off their property, regardless of whether they are on a 1,000 hectare farm in the Hunter Valley or further west or living in a one bedroom unit in Surry Hills. ... more
  • Dora Creek Swampies 19th September 2019 I wish to acknowledge and congratulate the Dora Creek Swampies who broke a 13-year drought at the weekend and won Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League’s A-grade grand final. ... more
  • Tribute to Lynne Turner 18th September 2019 I wish to acknowledge the wonderful community spirit of Lynne Turner from Coal Point. Lynne has been an active member of the Lake Macquarie Garden Club for 16 years and has served several terms on the executive committee ... more
  • Lake Macquarie air quality 17th September 2019 My question is directed to the Minister for Energy and Environment. Given his support for additional air quality monitoring in Sydney, will the Minister now give consideration to installing independently observed air quality monitors in Lake Macquarie to validate those operated by ... more
  • Lake Macquarie Smelter Site (Perpetual Care Of Land) Bill 2019 21st August 2019 I could not be happier to be speaking in debate on the very important Lake Macquarie Smelter Site (Perpetual Care of Land) Bill 2019. I acknowledge that the Minister is in the chair ... more
  • Public Accounts Committee 21st August 2019 As Chair I am proud to contribute to the take-note debate on the wonderful history of the Public Accounts Committee 1902 – 2018, which I am sure every member in this House would have read. ... more
  • Tribute to Oliver Croft 8th August 2019 I wish to acknowledge a wonderful young student from Blackalls Park Public School who has shown a great deal of initiative in improving his school and local community. ... more
  • Tribute to Enid Webster 7th August 2019 I‘d like to wish Lake Macquarie resident Enid Webster all the very best when she competes in this Sunday’s City To Surf at the spritely age of 98. ... more
  • Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019 6th August 2019 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) (16:58): As a co-sponsor of the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019, I support it. I was not on the working committee that drafted the bill, ... more
  • Sessional orders 1st August 2019 Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) (15:48): I feel compelled to contribute to this debate. Generally, I support the recommendations. I acknowledge everyone who sat around the committee table during a substantial number of meetings. ... more
  • Awaba Mountain Bike Park 30th July 2019 There are a thousand good reasons to visit Lake Macquarie but tonight I will inform the House about just one of them. A week ago I visited the Awaba Mountain Bike Park, ... more
  • Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centrre 30th July 2019 My question is directed to the Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans. Following the Minister's call for an independent review of the closure of Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre, ... more
  • Lake Macquarie Electorate Railway Station Car Parking 18th June 2019 One of the great things about living in the Lake Macquarie electorate is that most people live within a reasonably short distance of a local rail station. Situated on the Main Northern rail line ... more
  • Local Government Amendment Bill 2019 18th June 2019 I have a little bit of experience with council — 21 years on Lake Macquarie City Council and eight years and five months as the popularly elected mayor, not that I am counting. ... more
  • Petition: Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation centre 6th June 2019 On March 29, the NSW Office of Sport, in a morning raid, directed that the Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre close and that all visitors and staff be off-site ... more
  • Fair Trading Amendment (Cash Loan Machines) Bill 2019 30th May 2019 We know that payday lending involves not only vending machines but also online payday loans and bricks-and-mortar establishments. ... more
  • Morisset Country Club 30th May 2019 To the disappointment of many in my community, the curtain has come down somewhat unexpectedly on Morisset Country Club, ... more
  • Ageing and Disability Commissioner Bill 2019 29th May 2019 In the past few years the media has exposed some shocking and horrifying circumstances to the community and to members in this place. ... more
  • Question time: Myuna Bay 28th May 2019 With the Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre closed without warning during the caretaker period at the behest of Origin Energy ... more
  • World Ovarian Cancer Day 9th May 2019 Over a relatively short period warriors have been out there championing the cause and have done an amazing job in raising awareness of this insidious disease. ... more
  • Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre 7th May 2019 Today I tabled a petition signed by more than 18,000 people who are shocked, angered and bewildered by a decision to immediately evacuate and close the Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre on 29 March ... more
  • Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Amendment Bill 2018; National Disability Insurance Scheme (Worker Checks) Bill 2018 21st November 2018 I will not accept that there has been a unanimous view but there are certainly people who believe that there needs to be reform in this space. The people I spoke to could not articulate whether this is exactly what they want. I think the impact on the Aboriginal community makes the issue much more s... ... more
  • Coal Point Progress Association President Suzanne Pritchard 21st November 2018 I acknowledge the work of Suzanne Pritchard, who epitomises the wonderful community spirit we enjoy in Lake Macquarie. Suzanne has been the President of the Coal Point Progress Association for 23 years ... more
  • Snowy Hydro Corporatisation Amendment (Snowy 2.0) Bill 2018 21st November 2018 The extra capacity of Snowy 2.0 will provide about 2,000 megawatts of energy to the national energy market, making it the third largest individual generator behind Eraring and Bayswater in the Hunter Valley. It is extremely important to securing the State's energy supply ... more
  • Ovarian Cancer 13th November 2018 Today on average, three Australian women will die from ovarian cancer. Roughly four more women will be diagnosed and of those, two will be fortunate if they are alive five years from now. There is no proven method of prevention of ovarian cancer. ... more
  • Lake Macquarie Police Numbers 24th October 2018 Given the Police Association says that an additional 2,500 police officers are urgently required in New South Wales, will the Government deliver those extra police, allowing for increased attention for growth areas such as southern Lake Macquarie and the 24/7 operation of Morisset Police Station? ... more
  • South Lake Macquarie Amateur Sailing Club 24th October 2018 I acknowledge the South Lake Macquarie Amateur Sailing Club at Sunshine and the extraordinary efforts of the club's volunteers. The club recently hosted the NSW Youth Sailing Championships for the second year in a row ... more
  • Crimes Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 23rd October 2018 I note the work that the NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team has done in this area. I must say that I was astounded to learn that in 25 per cent of domestic violence homicides, the victim had been subjected to strangulation or choking in violent incidents by a domestic partner long before they w... ... more
  • Invictus Games 18th October 2018 I believe that every person in New South Wales supports the Invictus Games and what they stand for. I believe that members of the Opposition would not have it in their hearts to refuse to support injured returned servicemen. I came into the Chamber when a division was being conducted on the procedur... ... more
  • Tribute to Ian Kiernan AO 18th October 2018 On Tuesday night, with the death of Ian Bruce Carrick Kiernan, AO, New South Wales and Australia lost a great champion for the environment, for his community and, dare I say, a great bloke. I offer sincere sympathy and commiserations for their loss to Ian's wife, ... more
  • Civil Liability Amendment (Organisational Child Abuse Liability) Bill 2018 16th October 2018 The bill does a number of things, but I will not go through all of them because they have been so well articulated by others in great detail. The bill creates a duty on organisations to prevent child abuse and to create a legal presumption that an organisation has breached the duty if a child for wh... ... more
  • Youth services and diversionary initiatives in Lake Macquarie 16th October 2018 We often hear that it takes a village to raise a child. While I am not sure that the adage is entirely true all the time, it is certainly true when it comes to protecting, growing and encouraging vulnerable young people in our local communities. ... more
  • Parking at Cardiff Railway Station 27th September 2018 We want to see people use public transport, and I am sure the Government shares that view. I suggest to the Government, though, that it would not want to invest in public transport that people do not use. I recognise that there is conflict associated with the interchange project, ... more
  • Tribute to Hunter Mountain Bike Association 26th September 2018 This week I had the pleasure of attending the Hunter Mountain Bike Association club base at Awaba to announce a $450,000 Stronger Country Communities Fund grant to expand the mountain bike park with world-class trails. ... more
  • Parliamentary Budget Officer Amendment Bill 2018 25th September 2018 I contribute to the debate on the Parliamentary Budget Officer Amendment Bill 2018. I note the worthy contributions to the debate of members from both sides of the House who ran through the history of the establishment of the Parliamentary Budget Office [PBO]. They talked about the intention of the ... ... more
  • Sustaining Landcare 20th September 2018 When I first became involved in the environmental movement, there were a lot of well-intentioned people and well-intentioned programs. The first program I was involved with was called LEAP, the Landcare Environmental Action Program. ... more
  • Lake Macquarie community digs deep for farmers 19th September 2018 It has been a while since Australia's prosperity rode on the sheep's back, but while our farmers and agricultural sector are a smaller part of our national economy these days, their place in our hearts, our history and cultural identity remain as large as ever. ... more
  • Question Time: Plastic waste reduction 19th September 2018 My question is directed to the Minister for the Environment. With indisputable knowledge that plastics lost to the environment will effectively remain there forever and impact on all biological systems, will the Government act to ensure ... more
  • Tribute to Tony Prior 15th August 2018 I acknowledge an impressive milestone reached recently by Tony Prior of Fishing Point. For 50 years Tony, a retired pharmacist, has served local communities through the Lions Clubs, showing an unquestionable dedication to his local community. Tony first joined Lions in 1968 when he lived at Branxton... ... more
  • Road fatalities in Lake Macquarie 14th August 2018 In Lake Macquarie we have a problem but it is one we are trying to take ownership of before more precious lives are lost. Too many people are being killed or seriously injured on our roads and with the fatality rate in our area 1½ times the State average it is not something we can continue to ignore... ... more
  • Crime at Wallsend 8th August 2018 I had not intended to speak in this debate but I felt moved to do so when I heard the criticisms made of the member for Wallsend. I am dumbfounded that the three Government members who have spoken in debate have criticised the member for Wallsend ... more
  • Tribute to Robyn Charlton 8th August 2018 I acknowledge one of Lake Macquarie's most tireless volunteers and environmental champions. I recently had the honour of presenting Robyn Charlton with a NSW Government Community Service Award to acknowledge ... more
  • Question time: nurse to patient ratios 7th August 2018 My question is directed to the Minister for Health. Given the inarguable importance of nurses to our healthcare system, what will the Government do to ensure that nurse-to-patient ratios in New South Wales are increased to support those healthcare professionals to deliver world?class care, particula... ... more
  • Fair Trading Amendment (Short-Term Rental Accommodation) Bill 2018 20th June 2018 I am pleased that we are finally seeing some overdue reform in this area. I wish that our communities did not need this kind of intervention, but the evidence is clear that at least some of the operators who use this relatively new disruptive model of holiday letting provide an experience to surroun... ... more