LUCY HOPE-MOULT

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—It is an honour to represent your country on the international stage and an especially amazing achievement to do this at the age of 9 years-old. Lucy Hope Moult recently represented Australia in Karate at the ISKA US Open held at Disney World Florida. The event saw 5000 competitors from across the world contesting titles. Lucy placed 1st in the flag sparing event and 3rd in clash sparing and sward combat. Lucy is dedicated to her sport showing great discipline, training three to four days a week, as well as maintaining her other school commitments. Lucy began karate classes at Guy's Karate School in Maitland 3 years ago and now competes regularly at competitions. Karate has allowed her to focus her energy and grow in self-confidence, initiative and discipline. Through this hard work she has been able to inspire other children in the karate school to do the same. At a time when women's sport is at the forefront in Australia, it's important to recognise the next generation of women who will be representing Australia. Congratulations Lucy, I am very excited to see all you achieve going forwards.