CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms CLAYDON (Newcastle—Deputy Speaker) (17:04): I want to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 140 years of Business Hunter. Since 1886, Business Hunter has been the driving force for industry, enterprise and economic growth across our region. From supporting local manufacturers and small businesses to advocating for major infrastructure and investment, Business Hunter has helped shape Newcastle and the Hunter into the thriving, dynamic region we know today.
Over 140 years, our economy has evolved dramatically. Industries have changed, communities have grown and new challenges have emerged. But, through it all, Business Hunter has remained a steadfast voice for local businesses and local jobs.
The Hunter has long been a region defined by hard work, innovation and resilience. Whether it's our world-class port, growing clean energy industries, university, tourism sector or small businesses on local main streets, Business Hunter has championed the people and industries that keep our region strong. Importantly, this anniversary is a chance not only to reflect on the past but also to look to the future.
The Hunter is helping to lead Australia's economic transformation, and organisations like Business Hunter will continue to play a vital role in ensuring our region seizes every opportunity ahead. I congratulate Business Hunter on this remarkable achievement and thank all those past and present who have contributed to its enduring success over the past 140 years.
I want to congratulate Newcastle Pride on two outstanding achievements that showcase the strength, creativity and inclusivity of our city. Recently, Newcastle Pride was awarded Best Event or Festival by the Newcastle Tourism Industry Group, a well-deserved recognition for an event that has become a vibrant celebration of diversity, community and belonging in our region.
Adding to this success, Newcastle Pride was also named runner up for Most Fabulous Stall at Sydney Mardi Gras Fair day, one of the biggest and most iconic celebrations of the LGBTQIA+ pride in the country. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of volunteers, organisers, performers and community members who work tirelessly to make Newcastle Pride such a welcoming and joyful event.
Newcastle Pride is much more than a festival. It's a celebration of visibility, acceptance and equality. It sends a powerful message that Newcastle is a city where everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and proud to be themselves.
Events like Newcastle Pride also play an important role in supporting local tourism, hospitality and small businesses, bringing people together from across the region and indeed across Australia. To everyone involved with Newcastle Pride, thank you for helping make our city more inclusive, more compassionate and definitely more colourful.