Community Recognition Statement

Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields): — With restrictions easing and a return to some normalcy, we can reflect on the past four months in lockdown.

People in my electorate heeded the call to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their loved ones and our community.

I am proud of my community's efforts to pull together during this difficult period.

Of course, essential workers played a pivotal role during lockdown. Our healthcare workers put their own health at risk to protect others.

I was delighted to catch up with Macquarie Fields High School student leaders, Luke Cox and Shamika GC, at the South Western Sydney Vaccination Centre in Macquarie Fields to acknowledge healthcare workers' efforts.

The students presented the healthcare workers with cookie boxes with the wording: 'You rolled up your sleeves and got to work so that we could roll up our sleeves and get back to school. Thank you.'

I commend the student leaders for acknowledging the important role our healthcare workers played in keeping our community safe.

Our healthcare workers have worked tirelessly during the pandemic and our community is indebted to them for their selfless actions and commitment to protecting our community from COVID-19.

Thank you indeed.