Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—I would like to acknowledge John Cross, recipient of the City of Newcastle Senior Citizen of the Year Award, in recognition of his outstanding service to our local community. John has been recognised for his quiet yet deeply impactful dedication to supporting those experiencing homelessness in our region. Through years of consistent advocacy, compassion, and hands-on support, John has worked tirelessly to ensure rough sleepers are treated with dignity and are able to access housing, healthcare, and essential services. His work has played a vital role in strengthening our community's social fabric. John's advocacy has helped create pathways to care for some of our most vulnerable community members, changing lives through persistence, empathy, and respect. One of John's most cherished achievements was helping to reclaim the identity of Vietnam veteran Alwyn "Shorty" Craig, who had lived anonymously on the streets for decades. Through John's efforts, Alwyn was supported into long-term housing, received medical care, and was reunited with his family. John's compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment exemplify the very best of community service. Our area is richer for his contributions, and this recognition is richly deserved.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!