Our community is celebrating a number of milestones this year. Last Friday night, the parish of St Anthony of Padua celebrated 60 years of ministry to the Austral and wider community. Over 350 parishioners, families, clergy and dignitaries joined Father Ronnie Maree, Bishop Tony Percy and Simon Ghantous, the principal of St Anthony of Padua. It was a wonderful celebration of the parish and its volunteers over 60 years. In the last 60 years the church which has baptised 1,172 babies, performed 295 marriages, commended to God with a funeral for 262 souls, confirmed 1,071 people and performed over 31,000 masses. Eight parish priests have served the community, from Father Weaver to Father Ronnie Maree. Congratulations on the milestones, Father Ronnie. I look forward to working with you and the parishioners in the future.

Over the last three days, the Hindu community in Liverpool have celebrated the feast of Ganeshotsava. The festival celebrates Lord Ganesha as the god of new beginnings, remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and intelligence. For the last 30 years, the Friends of India have brought together family and friends to celebrate this event. In 1995, it was much smaller, with only several families coming together at someone's home to go through the rituals and join with friends. In 2025, there were more than 5,000 people present over the three days of the ceremony, dancing, sharing with food and sharing memories with friends. The dance group consisted of all members of the community, from tiny tots to adults, who had been practising for more than three months. The performances were, as always, spectacular. Congratulations to all on another successful event.

I would also like to recognise the passing of a local resident, Margaret Ann James. Margaret's family lived in the local Lurnea area for a number of generations, and their long-time contributions to the community have been recognised in the naming of the local park, Phillips Park, for her family. The Jameses lived next to Lurnea Public School for all their married life, and I remember walking past their house and being greeted by her so often during my time attending the school. The Jameses were very active volunteers at the local church of the holy trinity at Lurnea and Denham Court Anglican Church, where Mrs James played the organ in services for many years. Margaret was also a part of Busby Liverpool Auxiliary and raised money for Liverpool Hospital and other charitable organisations. Margaret is survived by her husband of 63 years, Allan; her children Julie-Ann, Lisa and Linda; and grandchildren. I send my deepest condolences for their loss.

Link to Hansard: Full Speech