Camden MP Chris Patterson shares his fondest memories
Camden state Liberal MP Chris Patterson has shared his fondest memories of representing the electorate while delivering his valedictory speech to NSW Parliament.
After 18 years of public life, Camden state Liberal MP Chris Patterson has delivered his valedictory speech at NSW Parliament yesterday.
The 46-year-old, who has served as a Camden councillor, mayor and state member since 2001, announced his decision to not contest the next state election in late September.
READ AN EXTRACT OF MR PATTERSON’S VALEDICTORY SPEECH BELOW:
I have been asked on more than one occasion if it was a hard decision to make to leave at the next election.
No, it wasn’t.
It was the right decision for my family and I, which made it an easy decision.
Since my decision, though, I must admit I have had the odd moment of self-doubt.
When I walk through these doors every day the hairs on my neck still stand on end and I am overwhelmed by the significance of this place.
From my very first day and up until this morning that has not changed.
I cannot put into words how rewarding it is to be able to serve the community you love and in which you and your family live.
I am extremely proud of all that has been achieved in the Camden electorate over the last eight years while I have been the State member and all that I have fought for before that time while I was a councillor and mayor.
Sincerely, I love my electorate and I am a much better person for having been given the honour to represent the people of Camden in some capacity over the past 18 years. I thank them for the privilege. I cannot repay the debt.
Without a doubt my fondest memories are of my time with schools, community groups, sporting groups and associations.
To be invited into those groups and to be made to feel a part of their community is very special. It is something I have never taken for granted and will truly cherish.
My annual primary and high school leader visits to this place have been highlights each year. If I had a dollar for every parent who said to me at school presentation time, “How do you sit through all these presentations day in, day out? It’s hard enough when it’s your own kids”, I would not be looking for work when I leave this place.
I can honestly say that I looked forward to them each year.
The only running I want to do is in the early morning at my own pace.
I will cherish the friendships I have made, the relationships I have formed and the opportunities I have been given.
I know that for all the sacrifices we have made as a family we have also been given many opportunities that others are not afforded.
Although at times this job has had its challenges and has by no means been easy, it has been extremely fulfilling
As members of Parliament each and every one of us has the opportunity to help people every day. It is what makes our job so rewarding and makes up for the long hours and personal sacrifices we make as politicians.
I am extremely proud of the countless people that my office has been able to help over the years.
To all my staff I say thank you for everything you have done in that regard. You have made a tremendous difference to the lives of so many people.
Although I leave this place not fulfilling the career dreams and ambitions I had when I entered Parliament, I hope that it can be said that I treated everybody respectfully, with dignity and a smile.
Finally, Camden Mayor Peter Sidgreaves, the Liberal candidate for Camden, who is here today.
If given the opportunity, mate, you will do a fantastic job. You have my full support. Good luck and we wish you all the best.
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