VALE BRETT CHRISTIANSEN

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—Last week Maitland Pickers club legend Brett Christiansen was farewelled at Maitland Sportsground by his family, friends, and players past and present. Brett was named at fullback in the Pickers team of the century in 2015 alongside names such as Terry Pannowitz, Robert Finch, John Graves and Noel Pidding. Brett was a Newcastle and NSW Country representative, and a cherished Maitland Pumpkin Pickers Old Boy. Brett was a founding member of Maitland Old Boys in 2002, setup to assist past and present players and support junior players in their career pathway. Affectionately known as 'Crito" Brett passed away unexpectedly aged 52, on the eve of Maitland Pickers recent grandfinal win. The Pickers squad wore black armbands as a sign of their respect as they thrashed Souths 46-10 in the grandfinal. Halfback Brock Lamb later dedicating his man-of-the-match award to Brett. My thoughts are with Brett's father Megsy, brother Jamie, and his three children Luke, Lara, and Lili. Vale Brett Christiansen.