CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms SWANSON (Paterson) (16:43): The King's Birthday Honours are amongst the highest recognitions a nation can bestow, and this year our community of Paterson is proudly represented by an outstanding group of local people whose service has made a lasting difference to the lives of many others. Gregory Budworth OAM has been recognised for his service to the community through social housing.
Over more than two decades, Greg helped transform Home in Place into one of Australia's leading social and affordable housing providers, creating opportunity and securing housing for thousands of Australians. Suzane Hamilton OAM has been recognised for her service to the Tilligerry Peninsula community. Her contribution is a reminder that strong communities are built by people who generously give their time, energy and care in the service of others.
Margaret-Rose Thompson OAM has been recognised for her service to croquet. Margaret helped establish the Nelson Bay Croquet Club and has spent decades coaching, refereeing and promoting the sport across New South Wales. I was delighted to congratulate Margaret in person at the club's recent 30th anniversary celebrations.
Wing Commander Susan Yates AM has been recognised for her exceptional work supporting women in the Royal Australian Air Force, helping improve opportunities, retention and support for women in service. Retention is something I care passionately about in our ADF. Good on you, Susan.
Warrant Officer Matthew Elliott has been recognised for exceptional service to the Royal Australian Air Force through workforce analytics, project support and enterprise data reform, making a significant contribution to defence capability. Flight Sergeant Joshua Schoeneck has been honoured for outstanding achievement in strengthening cybersecurity for the E-7A Wedgetail fleet.
In Port Stephens, we are incredibly proud to be the home of these incredible aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown, and Joshua's work helps keep them in the sky and mission ready. The Australian Fire Service Medal has been awarded to Bruce McGrath of the Tilligerry Rural Fire Brigade, for his outstanding commitment to protecting lives and property, reflecting the dedication of volunteer firefighters right across our region.
Suzanne Freeman of Marine Rescue Port Stephens has been awarded the Emergency Services Medal. Across 24 years of volunteer service, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment and service to the boating community. To each of these remarkable recipients, I say thank you, our community says thank you, and our nation says thank you and good on you.