08 May 2024

Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields—Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Minister for Building, and Minister for Corrections) — A courageous and generous man who was one of the public faces of Parkinson's disease. Neil was a major contributor to the Macarthur Parkinson's Support Group. Through the group, Neil advocated for improved local services and more community nurses to assist those living with Parkinson's disease. In 2016, I had the pleasure of presenting Neil with a NSW Community Service Award acknowledging Neil's tireless work advocating for improved access to care for people with Parkinson's disease. Neil used exercise to help manage the disease and improve his quality of life. In doing so, he paved the way for more research into management of the disease through physical therapy. Neil was spreading awareness and advocating on behalf of the 70,000 individuals affected by Parkinson's in NSW right to the end. Our community is forever grateful for Neil's contributions, which sought to make life better for people living with Parkinson's, their families and carers. Rest in peace, Neil.