STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr CHAFFEY (Parkes) (16:18): There are many ways that you can make your way in this world, but you wouldn't get very far without those who build our communities brick by brick. That's why I've chosen to support a vocational student of the year in the close to 50 secondary schools in my electorate of Parkes, which covers 51 per cent of New South Wales. I had my own start in life as an apprentice boilermaker, and I know just how important it is to have confident and competent tradespeople in our communities.

Plumbers, builders, mechanics, electricians, hairdressers, chefs—where would we be without these people who provide safe places to live and work, safe vehicles to drive, high-quality and nutritious foods, and a huge range of other things that we often take for granted? I want to support the young people who will go on to support us in so many different ways. We are close to the end of the school year, and there've been a number of students across my electorate who have already been awarded and presented with the Member for Parkes Vocational Student of the Year Award.

I was honoured to present one recently to Zachary Finlay, a Dubbo College student who is already making his way in the automotive industry. I'm excited to be able to present this award to many other talented students who are entering a trade in the new year. To Zachary and the students across the Parkes electorate who will receive the Member for Parkes Vocational Student of the Year Award, I wish you all the best and congratulate your schools and the communities who support you on your journey.