CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Mr CALDWELL (Fadden—Opposition Whip) (16:12): Today I want to acknowledge the recognition awarded to the Paradise Point Bowls Club, recipients of the Gold Coast city council's Disaster Recovery Hero Award. Presented today at full council by the mayor, Tom Tate, this honour reflects the club's remarkable contribution to our community during Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

I particularly congratulate general manager Kat Vidal, chairman Alex McRae, deputy chair Laurie Whelan and the executive for their contribution and leadership. In a time of crisis, this club became a hub of support and resilience. This exemplifies the Gold Coast spirit, and we thank them for their contribution.

On 24 June I had the honour of opening a new Westpac branch in Coomera, an important investment in one of the fastest-growing parts of our country. At a time when other banks are withdrawing from local communities, Westpac has done the opposite. I commend them for supporting in-person banking and local jobs.

I especially want to acknowledge Westpac CEO Anthony Miller for attending and showing real leadership. This branch will serve small businesses, seniors and working families, and I thank them for backing our region's future. On 7 July I had the privilege of attending the Arundel Park Riding for Disabled appreciation evening.

This incredible organisation delivers equine therapy to people living with disability. I especially want to acknowledge president Katie Lister-Orpwood and Tammy and her son Cruz, who shared a moving story of over 10 years of experience with the centre. What they told us spoke volumes about the power of inclusion, patience and community.

I want to thank all of the volunteers and staff, whose service changes lives for the better every single day. On 4 July I attended the official opening of the new Pimpama post office, delivering much-needed services to one of the fastest-growing suburbs in Australia. This facility was made possible through the vision and investment of Norm Rix and the Rix family, who developed the Pimpama City Shopping Centre.

I also want to acknowledge the strong local advocacy—particularly by state member for Coomera Michael Crandon, who continues to champion infrastructure for our growing community. Australia Post has faced challenges in a technical, emerging environment, but they have responded to local demand with a modern, accessible service hub, and I commend them for it.