Marilyn Seccombe, East Maitland Grandparents As Parents

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—Congratulations to Marylin Seccombe for her tireless efforts over the last 12 years as the co-ordinator for East Maitland Grandparents As Parents [GAPs]. Marilyn has been a strong advocate for so many grandparents who find themselves in the challenging position of parenting their grandchildren. Marilyn has demonstrated outstanding compassion, dedication and support for these grandparents and has been a trusted advocate for them with the many government and non-government agencies they interact with, including local Members of Parliament. With around 20 families, made up of 40 children, GAPs has raised funds for annual family holidays as well as providing support and information for grandparents. The care and assistance that Marilyn has brought to her role as co‑coordinator has helped ensure that these families have the support systems that they needed to thrive. I sincerely wish Marilyn all the best as she steps away from her role and thank her for her advocacy over the last 12 years.