Wednesday, 21 September 2022

 Mr MELHEM (Western Metropolitan) (10:33): As it is the Parliament’s last day today, I just want to take the opportunity to pay tribute particularly to you, President. I want to congratulate you on the achievements you have made over the years in this place. You have achieved the highest office in Parliament, and I want to wish you all the very best. You have been a fine and excellent President and loved by everyone. So, on behalf of everyone, I want to pass on my best wishes to you and your family for a bright future.

I would also like to pay tribute to our good friend Mark Gepp, who will also be retiring with this Parliament. I wish him well. We are going to miss you; you will be missed. You are one of our better speakers and contributors in this place. You have been the chair of the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee. You always know where you stand with Mark Gepp. Good luck, mate, with your endeavours—whatever the future holds.

Also, other members are retiring, including Mr Atkinson—the father of the chamber, do we call you? He is a long-serving member, including eight years as President. Good luck, Mr Atkinson, with your retirement, and to Mr Rich-Phillips. Mr Ondarchie is not here today. All the members who are not likely to make it back for the next Parliament, I want to wish you well. To the people who are coming back for the 60th Parliament—hopefully we will continue the good work of this Parliament, because it has been a very challenging four years and I think everyone should be proud of the achievements we have made. Crossbenchers—I think everyone has done a great job.

I finish off by wishing Andrew, our Clerk, all the best for whatever his next challenge is. Whoever the employer is who is picking up Mr Young will be better for it. So good luck and congratulations on your achievements.