Wednesday, 16 October 2024

 Jacinta ALLAN (Bendigo East – Premier) (09:50): I rise today to pay tribute to the late Noel Pullen. Noel Pullen was a true believer in every sense of the word. He was a lifelong Catholic, carrying with him a determined belief in social justice, fairness and compassion. He was a faithful Essendon supporter – something I also support – a belief that sustained him even throughout those not so glorious days of the mid-2000s. But mostly Noel was a true believer and a staunch believer in our party and our movement. In his first speech in this place Noel shared the words of Ben Chifley, describing that ‘light on the hill’ as his driving force, his lifetime purpose.

It was a delight to serve with Noel in this Parliament during his four years as the member for Higinbotham. Those who worked with him during that time described him as unwavering, deeply committed to the people he served and fiercely determined to use the time he had. But as always with the very best of those who serve in this place, Noel’s contribution went far beyond his time here in Spring Street. In his so-called retirement Noel remained as busy as ever, serving his community as both a volunteer and a justice of the peace and continuing to be an unwavering source of wisdom for local Labor MPs. I also should make a tribute to Noel’s commitment to his beloved Brighton Union Cricket Club – a member for 60 years.

On behalf of our Parliament and our party, I extend my love and support to Noel’s family and friends, his former colleagues and comrades and the community he loved so much. Vale, Noel Pullen.