Local Legends

February 08, 2024

I am thrilled to acknowledge the Beach2Beach Charity Fun Run, which has been recognised as the community event of the year in the 2024 Australia Day Awards.

February 07, 2024

Tonight I acknowledge Jimmy Arteaga, our fantastic 2024 Citizen of the Year for the northern beaches. Jimmy is the Unit Commander for Marine Rescue Broken Bay.

February 06, 2024

Today I acknowledge the vital service provided by Kaddy Transport in Dee Why. It was started in 1980 by Val Rayward, a matron at Royal North Shore Hospital, after polio confined her to a wheelchair.

November 30, 2023

I commend the fantastic efforts of those involved in the 2023 Cancer Council's Stars of the Beaches dance gala. This spectacular event spotlighted nine local lunatics—sorry, legends—who not only embraced the art of dance but also played a pivotal role in fundraising for the...

November 28, 2023

I recognise and celebrate the Manly Warringah Wheelchair Basketball Association and the mighty Manly Wheel Eagles, who reached the 2023 State Waratah League grand final in their first year of competition.

November 23, 2023

On behalf of the Wakehurst electorate, I acknowledge and thank the Men's Kitchen Association for its incredible work in establishing and maintaining a safe community space for older men to learn culinary skills.

November 21, 2023

Today I recognise the French-speaking Association of the North Shore and its diligent work in supporting the French community on the northern beaches. 

October 17, 2023

I commend the incredible work of northern beaches resident Jo Mawson Lee, who recently organised a community screening of Jane Hammond's filmBlack Cockatoo Crisis. The documentary details the harrowing plight of the endangered species and the severe impacts of deforestation on our native flora...

October 12, 2023

I congratulate Narraweena Public School, which has won its first ever State championship in rugby union, winning the prestigious Bryan Palmer Shield. Many Wallabies players have called themselves State champions.

October 11, 2023

Today I acknowledge and commend the indispensable work of Women and Children First under the exceptional leadership of CEO Gabrielle Morrisey and its chair, Mayor Sue Heins. Women and Children First has served our community since 1974.

October 10, 2023

I extend my best wishes and congratulations to all HSC students in Wakehurst and across New South Wales as they embark on their exams. The next weeks will undoubtedly be full of excitement, anticipation and some nervousness. During this time, it is important to...

September 20, 2023

Today I acknowledge the amazing work of Stage Artz Performing Arts School. I am lucky enough to be a patron, despite not dancing or singing—and I do not even like musical theatre. Since 2001, the Stage Artz Performing Arts School and Stage Artz Theatre...

September 19, 2023

Today I acknowledge and celebrate the incredible work of Be Centre, a pioneering institution located in our very own northern beaches. Offering a unique and highly effective early childhood intervention, Be Centre utilises art and play therapy, revolutionising how we approach the mental wellbeing...

September 14, 2023

Congratulations to the Manly Warringah under-16 girls' softball team, which last month won the New South Wales State Championship at Blacktown International Sportspark after a stellar undefeated season.

September 13, 2023

I consider Phil Colman, a lifelong resident of Collaroy, to be a living treasure. Phil's association with Long Reef has been lifelong. Phil was a driving force in the area being declared an aquatic reserve over 40 years ago and in the establishment of...

September 12, 2023

I acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contribution of Mr Greg Broome, who recently stepped down as president of the Collaroy Surf Life Saving Club after 10 years in the role. Under Greg's leadership, the club has thrived and become an integral part of our...

August 24, 2023

I am delighted to acknowledge Lily Nicotra, who attends Killarney Heights High School in Wakehurst. I had the huge pleasure of recently sponsoring Lily in The Y's Youth Parliament program, which sat here in the Chamber last month. 

August 23, 2023

I acknowledge the fantastic work of Computer Pals for Seniors Northern Beaches, of which I am a proud patron. This organisation has assisted over 3,000 local seniors to navigate and upskill in the digital realm for over 28 years.

August 03, 2023

I recognise and commend the invaluable work of Josie Parata and Lighthouse for the Community. Josie and her incredible team support people in our community who are enduring the toughest of circumstances. 

August 01, 2023

I pay tribute to an extraordinary individual whose recent passing at the age of 51 has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her. We honour the memory of Louise Kuchel, a remarkable advocate and a compassionate soul.