STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms CLAYDON (Newcastle—Deputy Speaker) (16:14): I rise to recognise an extraordinary Novocastrian, Louise Walsh, who has recently closed the classroom door for the final time after an incredible 45 years as a teacher. Louise began teaching in 1977 and, over the course of her career, has taught children from kindergarten through to year 6, worked in school leadership, studied speech pathology and even developed a specialised language program for hearing impaired students.

But it was always the classroom that called her back. For the past 18 years, Louise has been a much loved teacher at St Columba's Primary School in Adamstown, where she taught more than 450 students. Louise describes teaching not as a job but as a vocation, a love from start to finish.

Her particular passion was teaching five- and six-year-olds to read and write and helping them become the best little people they could be. That commitment has left a lasting mark on generations of Newcastle children and their families. Louise has said it will never feel like the right time to retire because she loves teaching so much, but, after 45 years of giving 120 per cent to students, she has certainly earned the opportunity to slow down.

I know, rather than just smelling the roses, Louise is no doubt going to focus on a whole new range of endeavours. Louise, thank you for a lifetime of service to our children and our community. I wish you a very happy and well-deserved retirement.