Gippsland › Latest news › Russell Broadbent MP
Well wishes to John Alexander OAM member for Bennelong
Russell Broadbent's speech for member of Bennelong, John Alexander OAM.
I rise to return this book, American Colossus: Big Bill Tilden and the Creation of Modern Tennis, to the members of Bennelong. He lent me the book, and I now return it to him. The member for Bennelong has given me great gifts, not just the book. He gave me 'Indian Summer' by the Gatlin Brothers, with Roy Orbison taking it home. He's told me about songs, about places. He's told me stories.
Member for Bennelong and former tennis player, John Alexander OAM
Higher than our thoughts
For me, his great contribution has been that, as an international person, to a degree he's been above this parliament. His thoughts have been higher than our thoughts. His work on committees and the uplifting inquiry into infrastructure - I believe he's a prophet and a seer.
One day, John - one day, Member for Bennelong - the things that you put in those reports, on that infrastructure and the way we do it, will come to pass in this country, and you'll be lauded as somebody who was way ahead of his time.
Cooperation for the betterment
As an international tennis player, coming into this place as you did, you had a different view of the world. You may not have been like other politicians here. You were different. You wanted to see national cooperation for the betterment, and the greater benefit, of the Australian people.
That was your goal. That was your focus and always has been. To me, it's a great regret that you are leaving this parliament. You know I encourage you to stay on - probably once a week - but your time has come. I wish you the very best, and I give you this song: 'Gentle on My Mind'. John, you'll be gentle on my mind forever.
Pictures from John Alexander Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Cann River fire damages three commercial properties and burns popular Squires Cafe to groundCommunity feedback wanted for the Wellington Shire Draft Budget 2024/25 by 29 May 2024
Appreciation to Bairnsdale volunteers for their support during Gippsland Rotary Centenary House fundraiser extended by Darren Chester
Baw Baw residents will get new purple-lidded glass bins collected separately every four weeks to better recycling process from October 2024
Exhibition by artist Matthew Bagley is captivating journey into ocean conservation at Berninneit Art Gallery
Outward Bound Australia praised by Darren Chester for their effort to revitalise Gippsland outdoor education
Penny Glover from Guthridge Primary School presented with John Printz OAM Award in front of a huge crowd at Sale Memorial Hall
Upgrades to Kalimna Hill trail in Lakes Entrance prioritises safety and accessibility for walker
Baw Baw Shire Council funds 28 community groups total of $105,303 from Community Grants Program
Free Masterclass sessions to promote safe and sustainable community events in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale over May 2024