It was great to attend the graduation of students from Southern Cross University last weekend.
The University is a very important institution in our community. It employs many people and is a great resource for local students. I congratulate all the students who graduated, Vice Chancellor Adam Schumacher and all the staff.
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Last week I announced more contracts to build over 100 bridges along the Ballina to Woolgoolga section of the Pacific Highway.
More than 1700 jobs have already been created building this section of the highway. Another 4000 jobs will be created when work ramps up even further as the bridges are built.
Our local economy is also benefiting with a significant proportion of contracts awarded to North Coast businesses, with flow-on benefits to the local accommodation and hospitality industry.
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Congratulations to Shakira Jefferys, Jessi Abeleven, Laura and Lily Davidson, Tarni and Heyley Rose and Natasha Hern who competed at the American Cheerleading Championships in Dallas, Texas earlier this year.
Our community has no end of talent in many fields and these seven teenagers did us proud.
It was a great effort and I acknowledged them in Parliament.
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I will be attending the 100 years of Catholic Education in the Parish of South Lismore at the Our Lady Help of Christians Parish School Centenary this weekend. A wonderful history.