Professor the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, Ad, CVO, Former Governor of New South Wales

Mr CHRIS MINNS ( Kogarah—Premier) (13:21:11): I move:

(1)That this House express and place on record its deep regret in the loss to this State by the death, on 20 January 2026, of the former Governor of the State, Professor the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, Dame of the Order of Australia and Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.

(2)That the Speaker convey to the family, friends and loved ones of Dame Marie Bashir the deepest sympathies and sincere condolences of members of the Legislative Assembly.

(3)That this House recognise the former Governor of the State's contribution to the State of New South Wales, including:

(a)serving as the first female and second longest serving Governor of New South Wales, between the years of 2001 and 2014;

(b)decades of service as a doctor and a psychiatrist;

(c)a seven-decade contribution to psychiatry, youth mental health, and Indigenous health; and

(d)a profound contribution to education, as a professor and later as the Chancellor of University of Sydney.

There is hardly a more credentialled person to whom we could offer a condolence motion. On behalf of the New South Wales Parliament, we offer our profound condolences to Dame Marie Bashir's family. Her children and grandchildren are represented here today by Alexandra, her daughter; Persephone, Nick, Edward, Natasha and Victoria, five of her six grandchildren; and Tomas, Victoria's partner. They are warmly welcomed here this afternoon.

From her birth in Narrandera to her appointment as a Dame of the Order of Australia, Marie Bashir went from the banks of the Murrumbidgee to the highest reaches of our community while never losing touch with her roots or with the people she so faithfully and assiduously served. I will give the House an example of her service. During her time as Governor, Dame Marie was visiting flood-ravaged Grafton, which at the time was half underwater and caked with mud. When she met the local volunteers—

Mr Richie Williamson: I was there.

Mr CHRIS MINNS: Richie was there. When she met the local volunteers, they were facing a devastating clean-up and the devastation of their livelihoods, their businesses and their local community. Her very first words were "What can I do? I'm good with a broom." On another official visit to Menindee in far western New South Wales, a young Indigenous girl in year 8 approached the Governor with the question, "Will you visit my town?" The town was quite some way away; it was a long way from Menindee, which is a long way from everything. The Governor told the girl that if she received an invitation from her she would visit her town. When the invitation arrived, Dame Marie was true to her word. She asked for one thing in return: that this student promise to study hard and get her Higher School Certificate. They stayed in contact for years, with Dame Marie encouraging the student, who did finish her HSC and went on to study teaching.

As the child of small business owners, Dame Marie started her schooling at Narrandera Public School. She followed in her mother's footsteps, attending Sydney Girls High School, where she was deeply influenced by her friendships with the daughters of Holocaust survivors and the strength they showed in the face of unimaginable loss. She then went to study medicine at the University of Sydney, where she met her husband, Sir Nicholas Shehadie, a rugby player who captained the Wallabies. One day, when he picked up Dame Marie from the children's hospital, she was in tears as she told him about how a child had been treated. This kid had no visitors apart from the doctors and nurses who were treating him. The next day, Dame Marie spotted Nick going back into the hospital with an armful of toys and sitting with the boy for hours while he held his hand. Seeing a man who shared her sense of compassion, she knew she had met someone special. They stayed together until his passing in 2018.

During the early days of her medical career, Dame Marie worked around Pendle Hill. Her family tells a story of her coming home from house calls where the patients had paid her in live chickens. When her children asked, "Why did you accept live chickens as your fee?" she would tell them, "It would be disrespectful to say no." Fortunately, one of their neighbours had a chicken coop so it worked out fine.

After more than a decade working as a doctor, Dame Marie witnessed firsthand the importance of mental health and became a psychiatrist—perhaps one of the first people to recognise that mental health was vitally important to people in the State. One of her greatest achievements was establishing the Rivendell Child, Adolescent and Family Unit. This was a holistic residential care facility designed to care for kids with acute mental health problems. It was a pioneering service grounded in the belief that young people should be recognised first and foremost as human beings, not just treated as patients or numbers or items to tick off during a day's work. That service is still running to this day. She went on to become the clinical director of mental health services for the central Sydney area.

A true Renaissance woman, Dame Marie had talents and passions that went well beyond her work in mental health. During her early years in the bush, she began playing the violin. During her high school years, she studied at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. I understand that there was a time when she was not sure if music or medicine would become her career. Dame Marie was well known for her love of classical music and opera but was less well known for her love of contemporary music. During her time as Governor—the oldest office in the State of New South Wales, if not the country—away from officials or cameras, she went down to a record store in Pitt Street and joined a long queue of fans lining up to get an autograph from none other than Carlos Santana. She patiently waited in line. When she finally got to meet him, she said, "I've been waiting for this my whole life," to which he replied, "So have I."

Dame Marie received many great honours, including Officer, then Companion, and then Dame of the Order of Australia. She was appointed a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order and had a primary school, a mental health centre, a sports field and a rural firefighting air tanker named in her honour. Another very important moment of recognition was Mother of the Year in 1971. That award demonstrates that on top of her hard work as a doctor and a psychiatrist Dame Marie was a loving mum of three children who prioritised that role.

I am told that when Dame Marie got the call from Premier Bob Carr to become the Governor in 2001, she was awestruck and even had a few doubts. This was the oldest public office in Australia, which had been held by the likes of Arthur Phillip and Lachlan Macquarie. She would be the first woman to hold the office and the first person of Lebanese descent. I am told she then reflected on what her mother would have said, which was, "Pull your socks up and do it for the people." As she had done throughout her medical career, that is what she did as the Governor of our State. Whether it was touring communities ravaged by natural disasters, supporting the arts and artists or gracefully hosting dignitaries from around the world, she brought humanity, strength, dignity and fierce intellect wherever she went.

Even as New South Wales changed governments, Dame Marie's term kept getting extended. But, in a final act of selflessness, she called time right before she would have become the State's longest serving Governor. Such was her respect for our soldiers, she wanted to leave that honour with Sir Roden Cutler, a Victoria Cross recipient. Dame Marie did not serve for the fame, public recognition, honours or awards. Her service was driven by a belief in the dignity of all people and a love for the State of New South Wales. Whether you were a highly decorated soldier, a governor, a head of State, a Premier or a Prime Minister or a child in far western New South Wales, she believed everyone deserved a seat at the table. Through her selfless drive to serve others, she earned the highest honours one could ever reach. Her life and memory serve as an example to all of us. She will be dearly missed by her family, but today we all consider ourselves members of the Bashir family.

Mr RON HOENIG ( Heffron—Minister for Local Government) (13:40:25): I speak on the passing of an Australian icon, Professor the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO, who left us on 20 January 2026 at the age of 95. Dame Marie Bashir was born in Narrandera, a small town in the Riverina region of New South Wales. From those humble beginnings on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, she would go on to become one of our nation's most distinguished leaders in medicine, education, public life and civic service. She was a product of the New South Wales public education system, commencing her schooling at Narrandera Public School before attending Sydney Girls High School. She then pursued her medical degree at the University of Sydney, where she graduated with degrees in medicine and surgery in 1956. She later returned to the university to undertake postgraduate studies in psychiatry.

Dame Marie's professional contributions to psychiatry were transformative. From 1982 to 1987 she served as the founding director of the Rivendell Child, Adolescent and Family Unit, a service that continues to provide specialist support to young people with emotional and psychiatric challenges. She would later serve as Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Sydney, and in 2007 became the second female chancellor of the university, a role she held with distinction until 2012.

Her compassion and leadership in mental health extended beyond institutions. In 1995, together with Aboriginal Medical Services in Redfern, she established the Aboriginal mental health unit, a pioneering effort in culturally sensitive care at a time when such services were rare and sorely needed. She also served as area director of mental health services for Central Sydney. Her contributions were recognised with distinguished honours. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1998 for her services to child and adolescent mental health, and in 2001 was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for her broader contributions to medicine, education and the community. In 2006 she was invested by Her Majesty the Queen as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.

In her personal life, Dame Marie was married in 1957 to Sir Nicholas Shehadie, a great figure in Australian rugby union. Their partnership lasted more than 61 years until his passing in 2018. They raised three children and were blessed with six grandchildren. Sir Nicholas's involvement in local government introduced Dame Marie to public service, and this would foreshadow her own historic appointment to vice-regal office. In 2001, on the recommendation of then Premier of New South Wales Bob Carr, Dame Marie Bashir was appointed the thirty‑seventh Governor of New South Wales—the first woman, the first university professor and the first person of Lebanese heritage to hold our State's highest civic office.

Her tenure spanned more than 13 years, during which she reimagined the role of Governor, bringing warmth, intellect and unwavering engagement with communities across this State. She used the office not simply for ceremony but as a platform for education, mental health awareness, the arts and social justice. Dame Marie Bashir redefined vice-regal leadership. She showed us that authority and empathy are not opposites but partners. She served with brilliance, grace and, above all, humility. She stepped down on 1 October 2014, choosing not to exceed the distinguished service of one of her predecessors, Sir Roden Cutler, out of respect for his legacy.

In her final year as Governor, Dame Marie Bashir was made a Dame of the Order of Australia. In that citation she was recognised for extraordinary and pre-eminent achievement and merit in service to the administration, public life and people of New South Wales; to medicine, particularly as an advocate for improved mental health outcomes for the young, marginalised and disadvantaged; to international relations, through the promotion of collaborative health programs; and as a leader in tertiary education. It is appropriate that, when we remember her legacy today, we honour not only her many accolades but also the qualities by which she lived: intelligence, compassion and humility. We mourn the passing of a true trailblazer. Vale, Professor the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO.

Mr ANTHONY ROBERTS ( Lane Cove ) ( 13:45 :58 ): Dame Marie Bashir approached public life with sincerity and with purpose, and that was evident in the way she carried the office of Governor of this great State of New South Wales. She never treated the role as a résumé marker, and she took it very seriously. She wanted to do the job well—in fact, the best of any Governor who had been before her. She wanted the office to matter. As has been mentioned, before becoming Governor she had spent her life working as a doctor and psychiatrist, particularly with young people and those facing real disadvantage. That background shaped how she saw the role, not as something that existed above the community but as something that should engage with it.

As Governor, she showed that the office could do more than just preside. It could connect. It could support. It could correct, and it could lift people up. She used the position to engage with communities across this great State, to support charities and civic institutions, and to draw attention to causes that did not always find their way into the centre of public debate. She understood that the authority of the office carried with it an opportunity to advocate, to encourage and to bring people together. There is an important lesson in that. She demonstrated that the role of Governor is not about throwing weight around or relying on status. It is about responsibility. It is about effort and intent, and about using the position to serve others rather than oneself.

As mentioned, her appointment as the first woman to serve as Governor of New South Wales was rightly recognised as a significant moment, but she never behaved as though she was there to make a statement about herself. She was there because she was highly capable, deeply committed and determined to do the job properly. In doing so, she lifted the office of Governor. She strengthened its connection to the people of this State, and she left it better than she found it. Those are lessons worth remembering.

As I remember Dame Marie—and she is in my prayers with my rosary each morning—I recall some significant events. Ministers are required to go to what is called the Executive Council to see the Governor. They get a whole list of documents for the Governor to sign—various pieces of legislation and whatnot. Some would see this as a pretty easy job to do. Ministers go there, get the Governor to sign off and then they might have a bit of breakfast. Dame Marie was incredible. I had to be over my brief on every document. It could be a piece of land being granted over two acres at the back of a place I had never heard of before, but I had to know everything about it because she would ask me about it in a very nice way. Quite sensibly, she would, from time to time, raise my knowledge about the subject and explore how much work I had put into briefing the Governor on those issues. Then we would have breakfast, and it would be a delight.

As the member for Lane Cove, I am close to Government House, so I participated in more than my fair share of Executive Councils, which I loved, because it gave me the opportunity to cancel my morning appointments and spend time sitting with the most remarkable individual I have ever come across in my life. In those encounters, I would receive learnings from her over some toast. Toast was her favourite, but she got me into muesli and moved me away from bacon and eggs. She would share her stories and, in doing so, was able to teach at the same time. Those stories were quite amazing.

She had a particular fondness for my eldest son, who was very young at the time. I have four boys: Search, Seek, Destroy and Joseph, who is the youngest. John, the eldest, would quite often come to Government House for various functions. Of course, he was bored at five years old, but Marie would take him and escape from all the VIPs and gossip and everything like that. She would walk him around Government House and the gardens, teaching him the names of plants and flowers and a bit of history. It was absolutely incredible. I have photographs of that. At the farewell, John, at the age of five, presented a bunch of flowers and saluted the Governor on her last day.

From those conversations, something quite interesting came out about the role that the Governor plays. The Governor is presented with legislation that needs to come into effect. She once told me over breakfast that there had been issues with the previous Government—let us say there were some things that were unusual. She sent that legislation back for review. She did not refuse to sign it, but if she thought something was not right, she would send it back asking for clarification and she would never see those documents again. They would just disappear. If she sent something back seeking clarification, the Government would not dare to present that piece of legislation before her again.

She was a remarkable woman. She has obviously left a remarkable legacy in her beautiful children and grandchildren. I say to them that it has been a privilege to be able to share some of my experiences of their grandmother. On behalf of my family and my community, I offer my sincere condolences. As I said, I will keep her in my prayers each morning. She served New South Wales with such integrity and care, and she was such a beautiful woman. Vale Marie.

Mr STEVE WHAN ( Monaro—Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education) (13:52:45): I had the opportunity to get to know Governor Marie Bashir while I was a Minister in the previous Labor Government and a member of Parliament under the former Government. I will reflect on that. First, I pass on my condolences to the family members who are present today. A condolence motion is a sad thing, but it is really about celebrating a remarkable life—an incredible life. I feel that that is what we are doing today. Most importantly, this is a person who has made a contribution to our State. As we have heard from the Premier, the Leader of the Opposition, the member for Lane Cove and the Leader of the House, so many people have amazing memories of the things Marie Bashir achieved over her lifetime of 95 years. I think that if any of us could get close to the things she was able to achieve, we would be very satisfied with our lives and our legacy.

I always thought it was fabulous that Marie grew up in Narrandera and she never forgot her links to country New South Wales. When I first came to Parliament as a dark‑haired young bloke in 2003—I have not been here the whole time, unlike the member for Lane Cove, who came in at the same time—it struck me that she took such a great interest in some of the small regional communities. She was the Governor when I was first introduced. New members of Parliament are often trotted over to Government House to meet the Governor. We are introduced by people with remarkable memories for the list of names of those they are introducing.

One of my first experiences of Marie Bashir was when she made a trip to Adaminaby in the Snowy Mountains. Adaminaby is a small town that is famous for having been moved over the Great Dividing Range when the Snowy Mountains Scheme was put in place. She came all the way there to unveil the stage curtain at the Adaminaby Memorial Hall, which was the product of incredible embroidery by locals over many years. The Governor's visit to Adaminaby was a highlight for the town for some years. It was a special occasion to see how she handled that, the way that she talked to people and the sort of work that she did.

In 2006 Governor Bashir came to Delegate, which is another fairly small town, south of Bombala, on the border between Victoria and New South Wales. She was there to unveil a plaque to acknowledge the Black‑Allan Line, which is the surveyed line between New South Wales and Victoria. Interestingly, it had been discovered just prior to that that the Black‑Allan Line, because of a dispute between Victoria and New South Wales, had never been formally proclaimed. Governor Bashir was able to make the formal proclamation, and she unveiled a plaque on the border. That is remembered to this day in Delegate. I know that because just last year I went to Delegate to unveil the replacement for the original plaque, which was stolen by a strange person with interesting taste in souvenirs. The fact that Governor Bashir and Governor Landy from Victoria both came to a fairly remote community to undertake that event has stuck in the memories of all the people there. It was certainly a wonderful occasion.

The Premier mentioned the floods in Grafton, where Governor Bashir offered her skills with the broom. I believe I was the emergency services Minister during those floods, and I was there at the same time. I was always impressed by her ability to talk to and comfort people in difficult times as they faced those sorts of crises. It was another amazing thing about her. I read the ABC's obituary for Dame Marie Bashir, and I agree that her life was simply extraordinary. She achieved so many things prior to her time as Governor. Other members have mentioned the work that she did for children in the medical system—the thing which first brought her to prominence as somebody who gave so much to the community. It is rare to come across people who have that sort of commitment.

I also had the great pleasure of meeting Sir Nicholas on a number of occasions in my previous term as Minister. I was always so impressed by the team they made. Sir Nicholas went about things in a jovial way, but he also achieved very serious things in his work over the years. The member for Lane Cove talked about the privilege Ministers have of going to the Executive Council and then sometimes being invited for breakfast afterwards, which was a great pleasure. It was certainly a highlight of my visits to Executive Council when I got to have breakfast with Governor Bashir. Conversations around the table went from things that were happening in rural New South Wales and challenges that communities faced to conversations about history.

She had a great interest in Governor Macquarie and would talk about the reading and work she had done in that space, to the point of seeking information. At one stage there was a statue of Governor Macquarie in the forecourt of Parliament House, near where the exit is at the moment. When the security upgrades were done, that statue was taken away. Governor Bashir took a great interest in what happened to that statue. It was in storage at the time, but I believe it is now back up at the end of Hyde Park, restored to its rightful position overlooking Macquarie Street. We had some wonderful conversations there.

Again, in an experience similar to that of the member for Lane Cove, when I was sworn in as a Minister for the first time, in 2009, my children, who were then quite young, came to the swearing in. My son was in a wildly inappropriate T-shirt that said something like "outlaw" or "renegade", or something like that. He looks at the photo of that now and is embarrassed, but it was a lovely occasion. My daughter was intrigued by Government House, and she was poking around to the point where the Governor organised—or even took her, I think—on a tour. My daughter remembers that to this day. When she came back from my swearing in to this ministerial position, she commented on the fact that she had that tour of Government House at that time. Governor Bashir was responsible for that and may have actually accompanied her for some of it.

Dame Marie Bashir was a wonderful person. She had a lovely way of making everybody feel welcome. I remember arriving with Linda Burney at Executive Council one day, and Governor Bashir looked at us both and said, "I've hit the jackpot today." She had a knack for making people feel valued and welcome with her. Like so many others in this place, I had the privilege of coming across Dame Marie Bashir in only a small part of the things she did for our community. But that impression has stuck with me to this day, and it is one that I value very much. She will live long in the memories of the people of New South Wales. I extend my condolences to all of you and to her family on her passing.

Ms STEPH COOKE ( Cootamundra ) ( 14:01 :30 ): It is with sadness but also a heart full of gratitude that I acknowledge the passing of Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO. On behalf of the people of the Cootamundra electorate, I extend my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to her family who are here in the gallery today, to her extended family in Narrandera, to her friends, and to all Australians and those across New South Wales who mourn her loss. Dame Marie Bashir hailed from the electorate of Cootamundra, which was the electorate of Murrumbidgee from 1903 to 1981. She grew up in the regional town of Narrandera, a place that she loved and where her extended family still live today.

It is wonderful to know that someone as remarkable as her can come from such a small town. That is inspirational, in and of itself. It sends a strong message and sets an amazing example for young girls, women and all people in small towns that, if one can strive, work hard, and be strong and kind, they can achieve just about anything. Her remarkable accomplishments were felt not only locally and across New South Wales but also nationally and internationally. Her life of service stands as a powerful example of commitment to public life, advocacy and principled leadership. An extremely loved and cherished woman of proud Lebanese heritage, who we have already heard so much about today, Dame Marie Bashier lived a remarkable life and garnered more than 70 awards and various titles throughout her illustrious career. She was a tireless and passionate advocate for mental health resourcing, dedicating herself to improving services and support for those affected by mental illness, along with having a keen interest in Indigenous health.

By 1988 her outstanding service to juvenile mental health would earn her the appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia. Her compassion knew no bounds, and perhaps her regional upbringing shaped her strong commitment to rural and remote communities across New South Wales. That commitment was evident throughout her tenure as the thirty-seventh Governor of New South Wales. She was the first female and second longest serving Governor of New South Wales, serving from 2001 to 2014. While Dame Marie achieved many historic distinctions, she carried them with humility and grace. Her leadership was marked not by titles or ceremony but by genuine care for people from all walks of life. Her service as Governor exemplified integrity, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the people of this State.

From a young age Dame Marie was inspired by the State Library of New South Wales, and her early engagement with Australian history fostered a deep respect for First Nations peoples. She held a strong belief in self-determination and inclusion—values that remained central throughout her life—and it is wonderful to know that, in 2014, the Macquarie Street reading room was renamed in honour of this exceptional lady. Her pursuit of education was lifelong. She was educated at Narrandera Public School, a beautiful little school that I have visited countless times in the past eight years, with amazing grounds and wonderful teachers. It is truly one of the best of the 82 schools that I have the privilege of representing in this place. Of course, she went on to Sydney Girls High School. She studied violin at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music before turning to medicine, graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Sydney in 1956.

In 1957 she married her late husband—we heard a beautiful recount of that story today—Sir Nicholas Shehadie, a well-known rugby player who later served as Lord Mayor of Sydney. Working initially as a general practitioner in Western Sydney, Dame Marie undertook postgraduate studies in psychiatry. In 1993 she was appointed clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Sydney, where she led academic programs and research. She later served as clinical director of mental health services for the central Sydney area. In 1995 she played a leading role in establishing the Aboriginal Health Service, improving access to culturally appropriate health care. In her honour, we are already starting a strong campaign for the establishment of an Aboriginal medical service in Narrandera. We believe that is truly necessary, and we look forward to continuing that journey until we are successful.

By that stage Dame Marie Bashir had accumulated achievements that would define several lifetimes, as the Premier reflected today. Yet she chose not to use her titles, another clear reflection of her humility and values. Her many honours included appointments as an Officer and later Companion of the Order of Australia, and in 2006 she was invested by Her Majesty the Queen as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order. Those accolades represent only a fraction of her contributions as a pioneer and role model.

Dame Marie Bashir's ability to engage, empathise and act on the issues of her time continues to inspire. While Narrandera rightly claims her as one of its own, her legacy belongs to all Australians. It is a legacy that is not only inspirational but also a call to action for those committed to public service and the common good. To her children, Michael, Alexander and Susan; her grandchildren; and her extended family, I extend my sincere condolences on behalf of her home town of Narrandera and the electorate of Cootamundra. Her legacy is one of extraordinary achievement, compassion and service. May her memory continue to inspire generations to come.

Ms LIESL TESCH ( Gosford ) ( 14:09 :36 ): It is a great honour to speak in Parliament about Dame Marie Bashir and her achievements in life as well as the personal connections we have had with her along the way. It is wonderful to welcome her family to the gallery to share this moment with us. Some of us will be waving to them from the verandah after the funeral tomorrow. She was an incredible lady. As a female leader in New South Wales, she was a role model for so many of us. It was with a heavy heart and great fondness that I received the news of Marie's passing on 20 January. She blazed many pathways, not only as our first female Governor, and the first of Lebanese descent, but also, more humbly, as a physician, teacher and mother. She was a lifelong advocate for mental health, youth welfare, Indigenous communities and marginalised groups, and maintained a hands-on approach by engaging directly with communities.

Premier Bob Carr, at the time of making Dame Marie Bashir Governor in 2001, said there had never been a more highly qualified Governor of New South Wales. And by "qualified", he did not just mean the letters after her name. Dame Marie's tenure as Governor ran until 2014 and was marked by a rejuvenation of the position at a time when republicanism was rumbling around and vice-regal positions were seen as the last vestiges of imperial rule and surplus to the needs of some Australians. Dame Marie did not seek the limelight or headlines. Instead of going to Canberra in 2008 to witness Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's National Apology to the Stolen Generations, she sat without ceremony in Redfern with Indigenous Australians. As she said in a 2013 interview:

Such a representative needs to be walking amongst the people — urban, regional, rural and remote — to act as a catalyst to bring people together across all groups in society …

Her list of achievements, ranging from the top end of town to championing the homeless and refugees, were balanced by her family life. She was named Mother of the Year in 1974. At a time when acceptance of working mothers was becoming the norm, she was seen as the epitome. Well done, mum! To me, Marie was a fan of wheelchair sport. A long time before I was a member of this place, I was involved in Wheelchair Sports NSW. She set a precedent that still exists today: In the lead-up to the Oz Day 10K wheelchair race down at The Rocks, competitors from all over the world wheel into Government House—posh, posh, posh for the working‑class girl from Newcastle. We were celebrated as people with disabilities at the highest possible location in New South Wales. She would then come down and cheer us on at the race. It was absolutely amazing.

Most importantly for me, Dame Marie Bashir presented me with my Member of the Order of Australia. I was a Paralympic athlete who got recognition for coming home with a gold medal. As my sister said, "Liesl, it's your OBE." We watched The Goodies growing up. It was so posh for this working-class girl to get this award. To not just get a Medal of the Order of Australia but also to become a Member of the Order of Australia was quite amazing. I was a working-class girl who transitioned from wheelchair basketball into the circles of Paralympic sailing at the posh sailing clubs around New South Wales and around the world. It was quite nice on many occasions to wear my Member of the Order of Australia badge amongst privileged white men in their blue coats. I have beautiful memories of Dame Marie Bashir, who had an incredible talent to recognise everyone, from the very top of the ladder to the working-class folk at the bottom. I consider myself one of those battlers who grew up in a working-class town. She valued education with an absolute passion. To me, she is the epitome of a female role model who set a precedent for the possibility of what women can do in New South Wales. Rest her soul.

Mr MICHAE L REGAN ( Wakehurst ) ( 14:13 :54 ): I thank the member for Gosford.

Ms Liesl Tesch: Sorry for crying the whole time.

Mr MICHAEL REGAN: There were no tears, really. I take this opportunity to pay my respects to the Hon. Professor Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO. She was truly one of the most incredible people who has served the great State of New South Wales. I say "serve" because that is absolutely how Dame Marie viewed her time in office as the thirty-seventh Governor of New South Wales—a true and genuine act of service. She will forever be remembered as someone who brought tremendous grace, integrity and compassion to the role of Governor. A pioneer in medicine, mental health advocacy and public leadership, her legacy will continue to shape our nation for years to come. Her life was defined by service, compassion and integrity. She gave so generously to our State as Governor over an incredible 13 years and also in various roles either side of her time in office.

On behalf of the people of Wakehurst and the northern beaches, I speak today to pay tribute to Dame Marie Bashir's service and acknowledge all that she did for our State. I also thank her family for the support they gave her and for sharing this amazing individual with all of us. I note that some of her family join us in the gallery today. I offer my very sincere condolences to Michael, Alex, Susan and their extended family. Yes, Dame Marie was an admired leader and a caring role model, but she was also a loving sister, mother and grandmother. We are terribly sorry for their loss.

My enduring memory of Dame Marie was her ability to engage sincerely and thoughtfully with everyone she came across, whether it was at a State luncheon, a school assembly, a community gathering or in the bakery section of Woolies in Mosman. When you met her, you felt seen—more than seen; you felt valued and you felt empowered. I was privileged and honoured to meet Dame Marie on several occasions in different capacities. Each time I learned something new from her about public service and community leadership.

My first encounter with this amazing leader was during my first few months in office as the newly elected Mayor of Warringah, perhaps it was even in the first few weeks. I had never even served as a councillor, so needless to say I was feeling a little out of my depth, which some members might find hard to believe. It was a whole new world to me. The good people at St John's Anglican Church in Dee Why extended an invitation to this fresh­­­­-faced, inexperienced mayor to come and stand at the head of the receiving line to greet the Governor of New South Wales. The vice-regal car pulled up right on 3.00 p.m. and out stepped Professor Bashir, as she was then. As soon as she turned her face to the crowd, she instantly radiated warmth, compassion, ease and a sense of connection. In a moment she made us all feel like old friends.

I distinctly remember Professor Bashir acknowledging me before acknowledging our local State member of Parliament, the irrefutable Brad Hazzard. This was, of course, proper protocol. Having been married to a lord mayor herself, the Governor knew exactly what she was doing. While I greatly enjoyed the evil eye I got from Brad, even if it was in faux outrage, it actually was not my highlight of the day. That came when we were being shown around the beautiful new community facilities inside the church. In one of the back corners was a young single mum and her son, who were very grateful recipients of the amazing community support services the church provided. The mum was smiling with pride at being in the room, but her son was nervous as all heck—more nervous than me. He was shy and quiet and hid behind his mum the whole time.

Then entered Professor Bashir. She did not just enter but also engaged—truly engaged. She knelt down to be at eye level, whispered some words to him and smiled that beautiful smile we all remember her for, and the boy just melted. He beamed, let go of his mum's hand and walked over to the cake table with the thirty‑seventh Governor of New South Wales to get a lamington. That day, I learnt the power that comes with true community leadership. It is not political power or the power to get the best seats at the basketball, but the power to leave a lasting, positive impact on people; the power to make someone small feel big; the power to bring a room together with just a few sincere words; and the power of connection. I am so grateful for that initial warm meeting and for the example she set for me so early on in my role.

I was honoured to host Professor Bashir on numerous occasions over the years at a number of different events. She was always so generous with her time and so genuine in her in engagement. Over the years I marvelled like so many others at her ability to represent our State with such dignity and grace. She comforted us during hardships, brought out our best when we were feeling our worst and celebrated us during our triumphs. She even knew how to jump onto a stage in her heels—those poor bodyguards! She loved New South Wales so dearly. She loved our history; she loved our present-day progress and achievements; and she loved our potential and what was just beyond the horizon. She absolutely lived and breathed one of my favourite quotes: Vision over visibility, or the belief in what could be over what is seen.

Beyond my role in the community, I also had the tremendous honour of getting to know Professor Bashir and Sir Nicholas in a slightly more personal way when my wife, Bronwen, worked for them in the Governor's office. It was my turn to be the "handbag". Bronwen and I often found ourselves in quiet gatherings with the vice‑regal couple, and whether it was my love of cricket or my experience in local government, Sir Nicholas was always calling me over for a chat. Maybe it was the fact that we were both there in support roles. As Sir Nick drank his schooners of beer in two or three sips, I would try to keep pace with my champagne or the sneaky glass of red wine that he would smuggle to me—because one is not allowed to drink red wine at Government House, for fear of staining the sandstone.

More often than not, possibly to save me and my liver, Professor Bashir would join us. She would delight with history lessons from 200 years ago about the race to colonise our continent. She would often say to me, "Did you know we were just days away from being a French colony?" Imagine this place with us all speaking fluent French! She would tell us tales of her childhood in her beloved Narrandera, wartime stories from when she attended high school in Sydney or have us in disbelief as she enthusiastically recounted her early days in medicine. Personally, I will never forget the time when Sir Nicholas and I were sitting on a lounge, post‑function, and he called out to her, "Marie, Marie, get over here and tell His Worship about the time you got paid with chickens—or was it rabbits?" She would plonk herself down next to us and recount those great stories.

Of course, she would never mention what a trailblazer she was, studying medicine at the University of Sydney in the 1950s when women were not meant to be studying professions; later taking on the establishment in psychiatry by practising what were regarded back then as quite radical techniques, such as telling young gay men there was nothing wrong with them—it is hard to believe now that was so radical; being part of a major reform in the delivery of mental health services; and leading the way in improving the health outcomes of Indigenous Australians through her long and sustained partnership with the Aboriginal Medical Service in Redfern.

Professor Bashir was, without doubt, the smartest person in any room she was in, but she never showed that in any unkind way. She viewed her immense knowledge and wisdom as something to be shared. For all of us who received just an ounce of that wisdom, we will cherish it always. My last enduring memory of Dame Marie is of her immense respect for our service men and women. Leading the Anzac Day parade down George Street each year was one of her proudest duties. She not only spoke fondly of her own family members who had served our nation but also showed that same admiration and care for present‑day heroes. There was always a special connection to those who served and she had a special fondness for her military aides‑de‑camp.

As I mentioned earlier, my wife worked with Dame Marie and the team in the Governor's office. I honestly do not think she has ever loved a job as much as she loved her time there. It was a small team at that stage, working out of an office on Macquarie Street, before the return to Government House in 2014. When Bronwen was told the sad news that Dame Marie had passed, we shared a glass of wine and toasted our thirty‑seventh Governor. Later that night, the Premier broke the news none of us wanted to hear but all knew was inevitable. Bronwen wrote to her friends:

Dame Marie was an incredible leader, a wonderful teacher ‑ I learnt something new from her every day. She was a woman of integrity, warmth, immense intellect and authenticity. She could speak at a primary school assembly in the morning, then attend an RSL luncheon, before an indigenous gathering in the afternoon and a Mardi Gras film festival at night ‑ and all those groups would love her fiercely and equally because she was so engaging, so true to herself and her values, so invested in the other person and just so authentic. A rare and special trait these days.

You could see people's physical response as they talked with Dame Marie .... They walked a little taller, their shoulders rose a little higher, their smile got a little brighter.

It was such a privilege to work for her and for her devoted "bodyguard" Sir Nick. They both made all of us feel like family ‑ from the admin team and drivers, to the special constables, military ADCs, visitor guides and gardening team, they had time for all of us and we all still think so fondly of them both.

Our state is all the better for Dame Marie's service but slightly dimmer for her passing ...

Vale Dame Marie ‑ thank you for your service. Rest in well deserved peace …

I cannot say it better myself.

M r JIHAD DIB ( Bankstown—Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Youth Justice) (14:23:31): At the outset, I thank the member for Wakehurst for his beautiful and personal contribution to this condolence motion. The impact that Dame Marie Bashir's passing has had on him and his wife, Bronwen, is obvious. He gave us an incredible sense of what Dame Marie meant to them. Dame Marie Bashir's family are in the public gallery, hearing the many stories about their mum, their grandma. None of us knew her like they did, but I will read a little bit about what everyone is saying about Dame Marie and tell some more stories—they may not be as deeply personal as others—of what she meant to people.

As someone who was born in Lebanon, at the outset I must say that Dame Marie is part of Lebanese folklore. Every Lebanese Australian person has pointed to her as an example to their children of what they could become, of the fact that we all belong, that we can be in any office in this land and be the most loved person, and that they do not have to leave their roots at the front door. She was an inspiration for many, but particularly for people with Lebanese heritage. I have spoken to my kids many times about Dame Marie. The first time that my daughter met her was at Government House. She said, "This is like Downton Abbey, Dad", and then she met the Governor. That was absolutely fantastic.

Dame Marie Bashir was one of Australia's most respected public figures—a psychiatrist, educator, advocate, and the first female Governor of New South Wales. It is always hard to be the first person to do something; she did it with class. We are hearing, over and again, that her life was filled with a sense of service. She served not just for the sake of it, but with compassion and kindness. As her family knows, and I observed, she spoke to everyone, no matter who they were; it did not matter what their title was, how much money they had or what they were living through.

Marie was born in 1930 in Narrandera, New South Wales, to Lebanese Australian parents. I loved the story that the Leader of the Opposition told about Sir Nicholas asking Marie's father for her hand in marriage and receiving a 45‑minute lecture from him. That is a typical Lebanese father. Their daughters are precious to them. I have daughters. If somebody asks for my daughter's hand, I am going to give them a good 40‑minute lecture as well before I say yes, just to make them sweat it out. Dame Marie's sense of family, community and history was incredibly important. She combined it with academic excellence. We have heard about her achievements at Sydney Girls High School and the different pathway that opened up for her. Imagine a young woman coming from Narrandera to attend a selective girls school in the heart of Sydney and then going on to become a renowned psychiatrist—trailblazing stuff that we now take for granted. It made a real difference. It just takes one person to open a door or to crack a ceiling for others to go through, and I think she never, ever, lost sight of that.

Dame Marie established and was foundation director of the Rivendell Child, Adolescent and Family Mental Health Service. I had a little bit to do with that service when I was the principal of Punchbowl Boys' High School. We had some young boys there who needed additional support. We referred those kids to Rivendell. Years later I met Dame Marie and I told her about the difference that it had made to them. Without something like Rivendell, those boys had nowhere to go. They were going to get suspended from school or get into other trouble. Sometimes their families found that very hard to accept. But Rivendell was a place where they learned to heal and to live with whatever it was that they were facing. Dame Marie saw the need for and importance of those services for adolescents before others did. It speaks volumes to her work in psychology. Her work with Aboriginal communities was also incredible.

We have heard her described as "the Governor of governors", and of her selfless decision to pull the pin on her tenure as Governor out of respect to Sir Roden Cutler. Everything we are hearing and everything we know about Dame Marie tells us that for her it was never about the title; it was only ever about the service and doing what she thought was right. It was never about saying, "Look who I am. I'm this really special person. You need to behave in a certain way."

As Minister for Emergency Services, I know that Dame Marie has a special place in the hearts of all emergency services workers, in particular those in the Rural Fire Service. We were honoured that she agreed to our large air tanker, the only one in Australia that is owned by a State, being called the Marie Bashir. When people are really struggling in a fire situation, that plane flies over the area and drops up to 10,000 litres of retardant or water, and it makes a difference. It got me thinking that it was a little bit like Dame Marie herself. She provides comfort, she provides a security blanket, and she provides a bit of safety and hope. When I think about that, I realise how aptly named this aeroplane is. It has been flying all around the State and all around the world, so she is really racking up her frequently flyer points at the moment because she spends a lot of time in the Northern Hemisphere as well.

I am so pleased that tomorrow at her funeral the emergency services will play a really important role, which is so special. I thank the family for allowing that because, to the emergency services, Dame Marie is incredibly special. The SES holds her in just as high esteem for her support through floods, cyclones and other events. We forget that during the floods in 2007 and the Pasha Bulker event, it meant something that somebody was there. The story about "I've got a broom" is not an unusual one. Dame Marie was not there for the trumpets and the red carpet. That was not her. She was there to give comfort, very much like the aeroplane named after her, and to let people know that she absolutely stood with them.

There are no higher awards than those that Dame Marie Bashir received. I will not go through those because my colleagues already have. A person does not get those awards just for turning up but because someone or a whole community believes they have earned them. To be awarded Dame of the Order of Australia is the highest honour that a person can receive. What an incredible sense of pride her family must feel. I cannot imagine their sadness but also their pride. As a State, we are proud that Dame Marie, as the people's Governor, was for the people, no matter who they were.

I have three personal stories. I have had to tone them down a little bit because they were meant to be humorous, but this is not the right occasion for that. The first one is about a trip I took to Menindee. The Premier spoke about Dame Marie's relationship with Menindee. I had a relationship with the school there, and I said to the principal, Fiona Kelly—who is still the principal there—that I wanted to stay. Fiona said, "You've got to stay in our Dame Marie." I was thinking, "What's a Dame Marie?" I discovered that, as part of a social enterprise, Dame Marie Bashir had gone out to the school in the tiny town of Menindee where they had refurbished the old sleeper trains—the really lovely old Sydney trains. They had been set up at the school so it could make a little bit of money and be more sustainable.

At that time there was a room called the "Professor Marie Bashir Room", and we stayed there. It was absolutely beautiful. The principal of the school told me about what it meant to the community when Dame Marie came out, and the fact that she wanted to support the local Aboriginal community in supporting themselves—through that accommodation and hospitality. I encourage everyone to get out there. It is a lovely place to stay. It has air conditioning. She had the best room: It had a little kitchenette, the tap worked, the bed was pretty comfy, and it had beautiful, crisp, white sheets. I think it cost only $60 or $70 a night, so it was perfect. If family members could get out there, they would be really proud to say, "This was Mum" or "This was Gran", and "This is what she did."

The second story is about the time I got Dame Marie to meet some boys from Punchbowl Boys High School where I had been the principal for multiple years—I was not in Parliament at that stage. It is amazing how many times we bumped into each other at events when she was the Governor. On one occasion I said, "Would you ever think about coming to the school and meeting my boys?" I will be really honest—I was a bit worried. I thought that as the Governor she was used to refinement, and here I am taking her to Punchbowl with all the boys who shaved yesterday but already have a full-grown beard. They were still discovering Lynx Africa and were a bit rough around the edges. I said to her, "I'd like you to meet with them because a lot of boys there don't know that they belong." I do not forget that. They were kind of torn between worlds. They would hear about themselves on the media in a negative way and people would judge them without knowing them, but I wanted them to know that there's a person who eats similar food, went on to become the Governor and is just an incredible person. She came and met with the boys. It was the most beautiful trip.

I was petrified because you can never predict what boys will do. Certainly, I could never predict what the boys at Punchbowl were going to do. I think I scared every kid to within an inch of their lives. I said, "If you embarrass me—", but the boys were amazing. They were fascinated by her but also fascinated with the car. They said, "And you get a driver? How do I get a job like that? How much do you get paid?" They were really embarrassing questions, but she was so graceful, so beautiful and so kind. It meant so much to them. Then I got her to meet some of the mums. The mums were just happy to see her. I thought, "Wow, you speak to kings and queens, and you're talking to a kid who doesn't use full sentences and is really rough around the edges, but you've come there to see them." The kids spoke about that, and it meant a lot to the school. It was her common touch, her human touch, and her compassion that absolutely made that difference.

At the time of my last story I was an MP and Dame Marie was no longer the Governor. An event called OurSpectacular, held at the Opera House, featured a performance by all the local schools in my area. I was seated next to Dame Marie, and we were having a bit of a chat. She asked me how everything was going, and then she shooshed me. She pulled out her phone and was holding it a bit unsteadily while trying to take a photo of a kid. It might have been one of the grandkids or the great‑grandkids—it could have been one of the kids of those present in the gallery. She was beaming from ear to ear. Eventually I took a photo for her because she was struggling with the phone. I thought, "My God, I'm sitting here next to an incredibly important person who, at the heart of her, is just a mum, a grandmother and a great‑grandmother." Just like all of us would be, she was incredibly proud to see one of her kin on stage. That really affirmed for me her humility and her sense of being there for everyone.

When I think about her relationship with Sir Nicholas, I think about their partnership. They were both incredible in their own ways. At different times, they played second fiddle to each other, but it was never about that. They were just there to support one another. I think about the family. I think about the many times I met her and the difference she made to our community and the difference she made to all of New South Wales. But, more importantly, particularly for people like us in this place and for anybody who aspires to leadership, her life shows that leadership is not defined by title or by badge or by whether someone drives us or we drive ourselves. Leadership can happen anywhere. It can happen in a family or in a business. It happens when we see something wrong and we call it out. True leadership is actually servant leadership. Dame Marie was a servant of the people, who showed compassion, care and kindness.

To hear MPs, one after the other, say what they think of Dame Marie must absolutely warm the hearts of her family. Your loss is our loss, and your grief is our grief. I cannot think of the passing of a public figure that has evoked more sympathy and collective thanks. Every member who has spoken has pulled out a Dame Marie story, and this is my story of thanks. On behalf of my community, and on behalf of myself and my family, whom she always made feel special, as she did everyone, I express my condolences and my love to Dame Marie's family. My goodness, did you give us a gift that we had never before received in this State. Thank you for that. Vale, Professor Dame Marie Bashir.

Mrs HELEN DALTON ( Murray ) ( 14:38 :55 ): It is an honour to recognise Dame Marie Bashir's life today. Born in Narrandera, close to the electorate of Murray—we share the same boundary—Dame Marie never lost her connection to the Riverina or to regional New South Wales. I live in Narrandera shire, our property straddling Narrandera and Griffith shires, so we feel a huge loss. We are so proud of her, and we like to call her our own. Dame Marie Bashir was a deeply respected and much-loved Australian. Whether as a psychiatrist, an educator or the first woman to serve as Governor of New South Wales, she carried herself with warmth and humility and had genuine care for others. She had a rare way of connecting with people and of making even the most formal roles feel human. She was admired across the State, especially in country communities, where people felt she truly understood their lives and the importance of fairness and opportunity.

I share a brief personal reflection. After I was elected in 2019, Dame Marie wrote to me to offer her encouragement and support for my work seeking a fair deal on water for regional communities. It was a thoughtful and generous note, and one that meant a great deal to me because it was so unexpected. It reflected her understanding that water is about people and communities, not just policy. She was very concerned about that issue. That quiet gesture captures so much of who Dame Marie was—thoughtful, compassionate and principled, without ever needing the spotlight. Dame Marie Bashir will be remembered for not only her many achievements but the grace and humanity she brought to public life. On behalf of this House and the people of the electorate of Murray, I extend my sincere condolences to her family, friends and all those who mourn her passing, and I honour her life and service.

Mr JUSTIN CLANCY ( Albury ) ( 14:41 : 2 4 ): It is a privilege to contribute on behalf of the community of Albury to extend our condolences on the passing of Dame Marie Bashir. Many of the speakers, particularly the Minister for Emergency Services, remarked that Dame Marie's style of leadership was servant leadership, but many also remarked that at the heart of Dame Marie was her family. For me, the most powerful recognition of her memory is the presence of her family in the gallery today. Like the member for Murray and the member for Cootamundra before me said, Dame Marie was a daughter of the Riverina. As much as she was proud of her Riverina heritage, all throughout the Riverina—and the Albury community, which includes the Riverina in its geography—feel a strong pride for Dame Marie in return. Members spoke of how it helped shape her humility, her sense of responsibility and her instinctive respect for community, qualities that resonate strongly with people across regional New South Wales including in my community of Albury.

As the daughter of Lebanese migrants, Dame Marie also embodied the best of our multicultural story. Her life demonstrated that heritage and belonging are not competing ideas but complementary ones, and that diversity, when met with compassion and leadership, strengthens our State. As has been said, before her vice-regal service, Dame Marie was an eminent psychiatrist who devoted her professional life to understanding and supporting vulnerable people. That background profoundly shaped the Governor she became. She brought to public life not just authority but empathy, and not just ceremony but care.

Like other members have said, all of our communities have connections to Dame Marie. For the Albury community, the way that she connected with communities beyond her office is exemplified by a couple of stories that I offer. During a visit to Albury High School, Dame Marie did not simply attend a ceremonial occasion; she engaged directly with students about their hopes and challenges and spoke with them about opportunity, resilience and the importance of mental wellbeing. She then took time to meet with local leaders to discuss their community priorities, including education and cultural life. That willingness to listen, learn and affirm the voices of young people and regional communities was deeply characteristic of her leadership.

In the days after her passing and leading up to Australia Day, I had a beautiful conversation with Father Peter Macleod-Miller of St Matthew's parish in Albury. Father Peter had many beautiful stories to recount about Dame Marie but there is one that I want to mention, along with another piece that Father Peter spoke to me about. Back in 2012 Dame Marie joined the congregation alongside the bishop at the time, John Parkes, for blessing the sanctuary lights and a memorial garden on the occasion of the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. I looked at the April 2012 issue of the St Matthew's newsletter, the St Matthew's Grapevine, which mentioned that Dame Marie stayed on to meet parishioners before returning to Sydney. What is important is that the newsletter recounted that those present recalled not simply the ceremony but her "warmth, energy and goodwill" and the genuine interest she showed in the people she met.

Those recollections speak powerfully to Dame Marie's approach to leadership. Whether engaging with students, parishioners or civic leaders, she understood that presence matters, that listening matters and that respect is shown not by rank but by attention. That goes to the point that Father Peter made to me when he rang just before Australia Day to recount these stories. Of Dame Marie's passing, he said, "Is that not another gift she leaves in this challenging time our country faces—that she calls to mind an example of selflessness, leadership and compassion and care for one another? Perhaps that is a message that we need to elevate at this time so that we recognise that all of us have a responsibility to our community, our State and our nation."

As the first female Governor of New South Wales, Dame Marie Bashir elevated the office she held and set a standard of compassionate, inclusive leadership that continues to inspire. On behalf of the people of Albury, I extend our deepest condolences to Dame Marie's family in the gallery today and to her friends and colleagues. We honour her legacy as a trailblazer, a healer and a leader whose life of service has left our State better than she found it. Vale, Dame Marie.

Ms DONNA DAVIS ( Parramatta ) ( 14:48 :27 ): On behalf of the people of Parramatta, I offer my sincere condolences to the family, some of whom are present in the gallery today, and friends of the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO, FTSE. Marie Bashir's service as Governor of New South Wales came after a lifetime of work in medicine. Noted particularly for her commitment to adolescent mental health, Dame Marie Bashir was well ahead of us all in that area. Today we understand the importance of resilience and mental wellbeing for children because pioneers such as Dame Marie moved them out of the era of being seen but not heard. In 1972 Dame Marie Bashir was the founding director of the Rivendell Child, Adolescent and Family Service. Today that service forms part of her impressive legacy. Rivendell serves approximately 500 children struggling with mental health challenges each year. It also functions as a teaching hospital of the University of Sydney, ensuring medical students are given hands-on experience with the most vulnerable in our society.

Dame Marie Bashir was not only a trailblazer in adolescent mental health, but also a role model for women, particularly in the Lebanese Australian community. Earlier in my career I served on the staff of the Hon. Barbara Perry, a former member for Auburn and the first woman of Lebanese origin to serve in this place and become a Minister. Barbara was inspired by Dame Marie Bashir and interacted with her during her earlier career practising family law for Legal Aid NSW. Barbara wrote recently in The Catholic Weekly about the "clarity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice" shown by Dame Marie Bashir as an expert witness testifying to the impacts of childhood trauma.

Dame Marie Bashir held many titles throughout her impressive career—GP, psychiatrist, NSW Mother of the Year, Lady Mayoress of Sydney, Governor, patron of the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of NSW, mum—yet she always retained her humility. Dame Marie Bashir stood down as governor just shy of breaking the record of the longest-serving governor, Sir Roden Cutler. At the time of her stepping down, she said that Sir Roden, who had lost a leg serving in World War II, deserved to retain the title of longest-serving governor. That selflessness and humility was a hallmark of Dame Bashir's public life.

It has been touching to hear my parliamentary colleagues recounting their personal anecdotes today. I was not so fortunate as to have that personal interaction, but I do have a powerful memory. The respect Dame Marie commanded, but never requested or expected, was demonstrated on 1 October 2014, when Dame Marie Bashir and Sir Nicholas Shehadie were given a farewell procession along Sydney's Macquarie Street to mark her Excellency's final day in office. I was there that day with my son Byron, who joined Scouts from across the Scouting Movement to say farewell and give thanks for her service as the patron of Scouts NSW, a role that provided her with the opportunity to engage with Scouts, Scout leaders and Scouting families from across the movement in New South Wales. I thank her family members in the public gallery today for sharing their mother with all of us, a generous act we will be eternally grateful for. Vale, the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO, FTSE.

Ms ROBYN PRESTON ( Hawkesbury ) ( 14:52 :41 ): I acknowledge with great sadness the passing of Dame Marie Bashir, an extraordinary Australian whose life was defined by service, compassion and quiet strength. Dame Marie served New South Wales with great dignity as our first female governor from 2001 to 2014. In that role, she brought warmth, wisdom and humanity to Government House and earned the respect and admiration of people across the political spectrum. She approached her duties not with formality alone, but with genuine care for individuals and communities throughout our State. Her appointment as governor was historic, but it was her character and values that truly set her apart. She was a woman of many firsts, and through those achievements she opened doors for generations of women to follow. She gave hope to young women who saw in her a living proof that leadership, intellect and compassion are not mutually exclusive.

Dame Marie was the daughter of Lebanese migrants, and she understood firsthand the hopes, challenges and contributions of migrant families. She became a particular inspiration to migrant communities across New South Wales, demonstrating that, with determination, integrity and compassion, one could break barriers and serve the wider community. Her life showed that our diversity is a source of strength and that the children of migrants can aspire to the highest offices in the land while staying true to their roots. Before her time as governor, Dame Marie was a highly respected psychiatrist, academic and advocate. She devoted her professional life to improving mental health outcomes, championing education and promoting social inclusion. Long before those issues were widely recognised, she understood the importance of dignity, understanding and support for those facing mental illness or disadvantage.

Dame Marie also shared a special and meaningful connection with Hawkesbury. The NSW Rural Fire Service large air tanker aircraft stationed at Royal Australian Air Force [RAAF] Base Richmond was fittingly named in her honour as a powerful symbol of her service, resilience and commitment to protecting the community. That aircraft stands as a reminder of her enduring legacy and her deep respect for those who serve and protect others. In Hawkesbury, we went through the Black Summer bushfires of 2019 and 2020. The large air tanker—or LAT, as they called it—could only be stored at RAAF Base Richmond because of the surface of the airfield. I know that the member for Dubbo lobbied very hard to have the LAT in Dubbo as well, but it is housed in RAAF Base Richmond.

Living at Richmond, every time it flies over, I look at it not only with great admiration but also with prayers, because I know it is going out to offer very important assistance to those needing help. It also actually works. It was brought across from an American design, and its introduction has been very successful. RAAF people love it and so do the Hawkesbury folk. Dame Marie also shared a special and meaningful connection with Hawkesbury in the generosity of her time as a mentor in the Hawkesbury student leadership program, where she inspired year 12 students with her kindness, encouragement and belief in their potential. She would sit down and have a private dinner with those students. They were in awe of such an amazing woman. Her talking calmly, quietly and humbly about her upbringing, her roles in life and where she had reached was truly inspiring and shaped the destiny of a lot of young lives at that time.

Dame Marie Bashir led with humility. Despite her many accolades, she never sought recognition for its own sake. She listened deeply, spoke thoughtfully and treated everyone she encountered with respect. In doing so, she reminded us that leadership is defined not by power but by service. On behalf of the people of Hawkesbury and New South Wales, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Dame Marie's family, friends and all who mourn her passing. Their loss is profound but her legacy is enduring. Dame Marie Bashir's life was one of service, compassion and grace. She leaves behind a New South Wales that is better for her presence and a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Mr JASON LI ( Strathfield ) ( 14:58 :19 ): It is with deep respect and gratitude that I offer condolences on the passing of Dame Marie Bashir. I did not have the privilege of knowing Dame Marie personally but, like many migrants to this country, I knew of her and was inspired by her. As a young Australian of migrant heritage, I was searching for examples of belonging, leadership and service that looked like the Australia I knew. And there she was: an extraordinary woman of Lebanese descent who, with grace, intellect and quiet strength, became the first woman to serve as Governor of New South Wales. Dame Marie showed us that public life—indeed, public service—belongs to all of us; that compassion, humility, and cultural diversity are not peripheral to leadership but central to it. In my electorate of Strathfield, a school bears her name: the Marie Bashir Public School. That, too, represents her legacy. Every day, a new generation of children, many from migrant and refugee families, walk through its gates under her name. For them, and for their parents, it says, "You do belong, you do matter, and you are seen."

As a pro-chancellor of the University of Sydney, I also stand here as a member of the institution where Dame Marie served as chancellor for over a decade. She was a guiding force during times of change—always calm, always generous and always principled. Her leadership in mental health reform, her work with young people and her unshakable commitment to inclusion made an indelible mark on this State and this country.

Dame Marie once said, "If you have the ability to reach out to someone who is struggling, that is the greatest use of your time on Earth." She lived those words. Today, as we reflect on her life, we give thanks for her time on Earth and for how generously she used it in the service of others. On behalf of my community of Strathfield and the University of Sydney, I say vale, Dame Marie Bashir. She led with heart. She made space for all of us, and she leaves behind a better, fairer and more compassionate New South Wales.

Mr RAY WILLIAMS ( Kellyville ) ( 15:00 :51 ): Throughout my life, as I head into my twentieth year in New South Wales State Parliament, I have had the great opportunity to meet some extraordinary people from around the world: Prime Ministers of Great Britain; the President of France; some incredible athletes, musicians and movie stars; and the great Bart Cummings and Gai Waterhouse. Amongst those people, I do not think I have ever met a more down-to-earth person than the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, whom we are commemorating today. I offer my condolences to all of her family.

I first met Dame Marie when the Hills Shire Council, which I had been elected to in 2004, invited her to open the Castle Hill Show. If I remember correctly, the show was celebrating its centenary. She brought her mounted guard with her. It was a huge event attended by many thousands of people from across Sydney's north‑west. The councillors, and the mayor in particular, wanted to ensure that we extended our gratitude to her. The council had instructed a painter of some repute to travel to Narrandera to find the house where Dame Marie was born and to paint a picture of it.

We presented the painting to Dame Marie. She was not only delighted; she screamed when she opened the present and discovered a picture of her first home. I remember her screaming to the audience, "I was born in that room!" I spoke to her family who are present today in Parliament. They assured me that the painting is still kept by the family, and that it is in very safe hands and will be for generations to come. Dame Marie was very touched by our simple gesture. I was always moved when I spent any time with her. She was so grounded, and so comfortable talking to people no matter whether they were world leaders or the average person in the street. I think she was more comfortable talking to average people and offering them a helping hand.

When I became a member of Parliament in 2007, Dame Marie was invited to the bicentenary of St Matthew's Anglican Church in Windsor. As you can imagine, the church was overflowing. It is a huge church designed by Francis Greenway—but not originally. During the celebrations, Dame Marie told the story of how Greenway had come to inspect the church during its early construction. He was disappointed that he had not been given the job of building the church. As he inspected the construction, he kicked over the footings and the early brickwork and then went back to the Governor, who I think was Bligh or Macquarie. Greenway demanded that he be allowed to take over the repairs and building of St Matthew's Anglican Church. Today the church is a huge structure which has stood the test of time and is a testament to Greenway's skill as an architect, designer and a builder. Dame Marie also told us stories about her early years as a nurse at Windsor Hospital. She had a huge affection for the Hawkesbury and a great love for the surrounding area, and certainly for its people.

In 2007, the year I was elected, I was invited to be part of the committee preparing for the bicentenary of Macquarie in the New South Wales Parliament. I was invited by the person who was then the member for Hawkesbury. It was a great honour to serve on that Committee and help in a small way to prepare for the celebration, which took place in 2010. Throughout those years, not a month went past where I did not meet up with Dame Marie and spend time chatting. She was a great admirer of Governor Macquarie. She saw him as a reformer who embraced cultural aspects. Certainly, the buildings up and down Macquarie Street are testament to his embrace of heritage. Along with his wife, Elizabeth, he established places for women who needed safety. Dame Marie saw Macquarie as a wonderful leader. Any time she was invited to attend an event of that bicentenary, she did. We would catch up and have a chat. She called me "Hawkesbury" and I called her "Guv". We got on famously.

Whilst Dame Marie was very proper and dignified at all times, she gave a wry smile when certain things occurred. During one of the events, about 12 people dressed as soldiers in Rum Corps regalia fired shots. There were about a dozen councillors there as well as a few members of Parliament, including myself. Sitting next to the Governor, I said, "Well, Governor, they're pretty bloody crook shots. There are all these politicians around and they've missed every one of them." She thought that was just lovely. She was very dignified, but she also used to enjoy a quiet moment.

Even though I was not the representative for Hawkesbury, that moment was significant for me because one of my early ancestors was none other than Charles Whalan, who was convicted of catching a fish at 15 years of age and sentenced to seven years transportation. He travelled to this country, served his time as a convict and became a member of the Rum Corps. He rose up to become the sergeant of the 73rd Regiment, which was similar to a Praetorian Guard. In that role, Charles Whalan served on behalf of Governors Bligh, Macquarie and King. Dame Marie was very much a student of history. She loved history about Governor Macquarie and knew of my ancestor Charles Whalan.

In the lead-up to the bicentenary celebration, Dame Marie and I contributed to a documentary made by SBS in which she put on the record her admiration for Governor Macquarie. We were invited to the premiere, which was a very special moment. During that time I also raised the issue of the removal of the statue of Governor Macquarie from the forecourt of Parliament. It had been stationed in the level 2 basement car park, along with some paint cans and rags, and had been forgotten about. I raised that a number of times in Parliament. Barry O'Farrell said that if we won the 2011 election, he would make sure that we appropriately honoured Macquarie. He and Dame Marie unveiled the statue that now stands on the corner of Hyde Park looking down Macquarie Street.

When she became Governor, Dame Marie insisted that she live in Government House. It was wonderful that she lived there but also that she opened it to the community, saying, "This is their house; this is not my house." It has remained like that to this day—people are allowed to go through, see the various paintings and items of early European history, and the beautiful garden surrounds and views of the harbour. Everyone should be able to enjoy those things, and she made sure of that.

When speaking about her great love of Macquarie, Dame Marie would comment that Macquarie came here when Bligh had been deposed and escaped—with the support of my ancestor—to Van Diemen's Land, or Tasmania, where he spent some time. Before Macquarie would assume the role of Governor, he demanded that Bligh be given safe passage back to Sydney and then to England to answer the charges against him. Bligh was completely exonerated and the people who were responsible—who shall remain nameless—were charged with the removal of the Governor. That was one of the rare civil actions undertaken in this country.

Dame Marie used to quote something that Macquarie said. When he took on the Governor's role, he watched Bligh board a boat back to England and turned to the people that were there and said, "As your Governor, I say that if you work hard and do the right thing, you will have in me both a friend and a protector." Throughout the bicentennial period, Dame Marie often cited that. It expresses the very essence of a good leader. All leaders should be prepared to look after, befriend and protect the best interests of the people who have elected them and for whom they are responsible. No-one did that better than Dame Marie Bashir, who will be sadly missed. I send my condolences to her family. Vale, Dame Marie Bashir.

Ms JENNY LEONG ( Newtown ) ( 15:12 :13 ): I contribute to the condolence motion in honour and recognition of Dame Marie Bashir. As the late former Governor of New South Wales would not doubt wish us to do, I acknowledge that I do so on unceded Gadigal land. I place on record a statement of Reconciliation Australia acknowledging Dame Marie's incredible life:

Dame Marie was a lifelong supporter of First Nations rights and reconciliation and used her position, both in her psychiatric career and as Governor, to advocate for Aboriginal self-determination. She listened to the voices of First Nations people and spoke up for their rights and aspirations.

Despite mingling with royalty and the rich and powerful, she never lost her passion for seeking justice for the oppressed and disempowered. She was known for her refusal to be bound by the stiff formalities of vice-regal office and was famously a giver of warm hugs to those experiencing hard times.

A founding member of native title support group, Women for Wik, Dame Marie was an active supporter of native title and strongly and publicly opposed the Howard Government's weakening of the Native Title Act.

As a woman of proud Lebanese heritage, she was an exemplary for the relationship between Aboriginal people and the Lebanese Australian community and worked to ensure migrants understood 'the horrors of colonisation' as she described the First Nations experience of British colonialism.

It is clear from the stories we have heard during this condolence motion and the flood of love, respect and stories online from so many organisations, groups and individuals that Dame Marie Bashir had an incredible impact on the people of New South Wales and well beyond, including as an individual member of the Refugee Council of Australia from 1989. She became a life member in 2001 and a patron during and following her term as the Governor of New South Wales. I had the pleasure of interacting with Dame Marie Bashir during my time serving on the University of Sydney Senate and while working at Amnesty International. I acknowledge many members have talked about their personal connections with Dame Marie Bashir, and I acknowledge that that speaks volumes about her tireless efforts to connect with, engage and serve our community.

Dame Marie served as the Chancellor of the University of Sydney from 2007 to 2012. I had the honour of being an elected postgraduate student representative during this time, including serving on the University of Sydney Senate with the then chancellor. On her appointment as chancellor, it became clear that Dame Marie was very interested in hearing directly from student representatives. She understood that if she wanted students to tell it how it was, she needed to meet with them directly. As student representatives, we had the opportunity to what I would only be able to describe as pre-caucus with the chancellor before every senate meeting. We went through the agenda, raised our concerns and highlighted the issues. It was a fraught time because voluntary student unionism was going through universities and the public education system, which posed potential risks to student control of student affairs.

It was very clear that the chancellor understood those threats. Perhaps the most powerful example was during senate meetings. The senate meeting room looks over the Great Hall. It is a dominating and intimidating place, particularly for those who may not have the most power or status in the room—namely the students. The chancellor chaired those meetings. When it was clear that she did not necessarily agree with the position being put forward by those with positions of status within the university management hierarchy or other appointed representatives, she would quietly and calmly intervene in the discussion by simply saying, "We haven't heard from the students. It would be good to hear what they think." In doing so, she shared her authority, power and status with us. Seeing this in action taught me so much about how privilege can be used for good to empower and amplify the voices of those who seek to make change but may lack the strength or standing to do it alone.

While working at Amnesty International, I had the pleasure of organising the campaign for the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As part of that, we held a gala dinner. Geoffrey Robertson, QC, attended and gave a keynote address. Dame Marie Bashir honoured us with her presence and also spoke at the event. During the course of the dinner, it was revealed that she was potentially related to Eleanor Roosevelt. I am not sure how that connection works, and I am happy for other members to correct me or provide further details.

One of the things I loved about that dinner was the stress on the face of the person whose role it was to manage the protocols around the Governor. Everyone at the dinner was supposed to stand when the Governor arrived. However, Dame Marie was less interested in the protocols and much more interested in saying hello and hugging everybody that she saw, so the protocols were never correctly followed. But I had a beautiful conversation with one of the people who had the pleasure of driving Dame Marie around. He said, "It's always very funny to see that the Governor doesn't necessarily express her views on public debates, but I know it all." I asked, "How do you know it all?" He replied, "Because we always need to listen to the radio while we're driving, and I can tell you she does not hide her views in the car!"

It must have been amazing to hear someone with such an incredible perspective on social justice and equality sharing her views on the matters of the day and then having to follow the protocols outside the car. When anyone contributes a life of such significant public service, that person's family must give them to and share them with the rest of us. I acknowledge those who are grieving and mourning the loss of the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir. Our hearts go out to them. We thank them and respect that we have had the privilege of knowing and connecting with the person they hold so dear in their hearts. Vale, Dame Marie Bashir.

Ms JACQUI SCRUBY ( Pittwater ) ( 15:20 :08 ): I express my deepest sympathy on the passing of Professor the Hon. Dame Marie Bashir, AD, CVO, and contribute to the celebration of her amazing life. On behalf of the people of Pittwater, I place on record our appreciation of her extraordinary contribution to New South Wales and to our nation. As we have heard today, Dame Marie Bashir's life was extraordinary. She served our State with distinction as the first female Governor of New South Wales from 2001 to 2014, bringing to the role immense dignity and compassion. She was highly educated and a longstanding advocate for mental health, education and social inclusion.

Born in 1930 in Narrandera, Dame Marie pursued a career in medicine at a time when few women did, becoming a distinguished psychiatrist and a tireless advocate for mental health and children's wellbeing—areas that were too often overlooked. Her work gave voice and dignity to those most in need, and her influence reshaped how care, compassion and community responsibility were understood in public life. As the first woman to serve as Governor of New South Wales, she broke barriers and set new standards for leadership. She demonstrated that authority and kindness are not opposites, and that the strongest leadership is grounded in empathy, integrity and respect.

Her tenure elevated the role beyond ceremony, embedding it deeply in community, inclusion and social justice. Others today have outlined her history in detail, so I will focus on her special connection with Pittwater. Dame Marie's connection with Pittwater was deeply personal, It was a sanctuary for her to be with family and in nature. She is on record as describing Pittwater as "one of the most beautiful areas on our continent". Alongside her late husband, Sir Nicholas Shehadie, she chose Pittwater as a place of refuge and renewal. She had a home in Riverview Road, Avalon, with sweeping views over Pittwater, and later on the surf side of Pacific Road at Palm Beach. Alison Guesdon of Pittwater Online News said:

She was a familiar and much-loved presence in the community, engaging warmly with locals and embracing the natural beauty and spirit of this part of the Northern Beaches.

As such, I wanted to give those in our community the chance to be included in this condolence speech, and I reached out to many to ask for their comments, memories and reflections. The Federal member for Mackellar reflected on her passing. She said:

Dame Marie Bashir's legacy will inspire generations to come. A gifted young musician who took a career in medicine, she became one of Australia's great clinicians and advocates, dedicating her work to mental health and children's wellbeing, at a time when often these areas were overlooked. As the first female Governor of New South Wales, she paved the way and showed that the strongest leadership is grounded in kindness and compassion. On behalf of the Mackellar community on Sydney's Northern Beaches, I want to thank her for a life devoted to service, care and humanity.

Former member for Pittwater the Hon. Rob Stokes also gave his condolences. He reflected on Dame Marie being a wonderful Governor and also on how highly his father spoke of working with her as a doctor. Former member for Pittwater the Hon. John Brogden also shared reflections and said, "She did everything graciously." He reflected on Dame Marie opening the covered outdoor learning area at Avalon Public School with him, describing it as a wonderful moment because her grandson attended the school. He said that her grandson was very much a mini version of his grandfather, the great man Sir Shehadie. Dame Marie also attended the launch of two new sailing boats for which John Brogden had raised money through Sailability Pittwater. One of the boats was named in her honour.

John's wife, Lucy Brogden, who knew Dame Marie as Governor and professionally, also provided a personal reflection. She said:

Her influence touched the lives of so many people—in ways she made sure were never public. Her impact is impossible to quantify. She changed and saved more lives than we will ever know. She had a great gift of care and kindness.

Jason Falinski, a former member for Mackellar, wished to put on record that Dame Marie Bashir was an example of what Australia means to so many. He said that from humble beginnings she rose to make an enormous contribution to her community, her country and our people, across so many areas that it is impossible to fully acknowledge her accomplishments and contributions. I thank again Alison Guesdon of Pittwater Online News, who provided a beautiful obituary. She wrote:

Dame Bashir was a very popular Pittwater resident who contributed in any way she could to local projects and events and will be missed for her humble, gentle approach and embrace of locals. To Pittwater residents, Marie Bashir was "one of our own"—her humble, gentle kindness and genuine interest in every single person she met, along with a phenomenal intelligence and memory, where she knew your face the next time she saw you and could greet you by name, will remain treasured memories for all who were lucky enough to have spent even a few minute with her. Thank you, Marie Bashir, for your lifetime of service to us all.

In other official duties, Dame Marie was made an honorary commodore for the Avalon Military Tattoo, which was held at Dunbar Park on Saturday 18 June 2011 and where she gave a keynote address. She said:

I ... felt elated and inspired by what we saw today and in particular where we glimpse the future of Australia in our young people. We must not cease to nurture them and be glad that they are embracing those values and traditions. It's not vainglory or wearing a uniform, it's an Australian tradition of caring for one another that has been handed down for as long as this country has existed.

Tamara Sloper-Harding, OAM, a local resident and head of the Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch, wrote the following to me today:

As Governor, Dame Marie Bashir supported Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch and was very interested in veteran welfare. She attended a number of events, including our Tattoo, and when she did she wore a Naval Commodore's uniform. She genuinely cared about veterans and their families. She was a regular presence and very approachable.

Tamara further noted that as commandant of the Australian Command and Staff College in Canberra, Dame Marie deputised for the Governor-General on one occasion in 2011 as guest of honour at the graduation of students. Tamara said of that time:

She was a lovely person who was genuinely interested in members of the Australian Defence Force, the members of the 22 countries that were also graduating, and all the families involved. It was an absolute pleasure and honour to meet her and spend time with her.

In 2012 Dame Marie Bashir officially reopened the Palm Beach Bible Gardens, which had been rejuvenated by the local Robinson family and Pittwater Council. In her speech she said:

At no time in our history have we needed to appreciate the teachings of the Bible more—especially the messages of care and compassion and how that is represented here. This beautiful place, an incredible haven, epitomises the generosity of your father and of the Australian spirit.

In 2014 she was made Dame of the Order of Australia. David James, former Mayor of Pittwater in 2007, and Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club former president Warren Young were awarded OAMs in the same honours list. Both were photographed with Dame Marie when all three received their medals at Government House. Again, that is a lovely reflection related to the Pittwater electorate. Others in our community shared light reflections. One constituent fondly remembers running into Dame Marie Bashir at a Bob Dylan concert in 2018. Dame Marie was 88 years of age and accompanied by her daughter Alex. Dame Marie shared that she had been a longstanding fan and was delighted to be there. That story is quite similar to what the Premier said today when he spoke of her love of music.

Another Avalon resident reflected on the irony that Dame Marie was appointed patron of NSW Rugby Union and the NSW Waratahs at the same time that her husband, a lifelong rugby figure, was appointed a patron of the Country Women's Association. My father-in-law said that she was one of the most decent and gracious people he has ever met. As we honour Dame Marie's life, we recognise not only her extraordinary achievements but also the grace with which she carried them. When speaking with those who knew her better than I, the same words were repeated time and again—grace, decency, humility, kindness and accomplishment.

She was remarkable in every sense, deeply intelligent, profoundly compassionate and extraordinary in the breadth of her contributions. Her service to this State, particularly in the fields of mental health, medicine, education and social justice, has left an indelible mark. Dame Marie represented the very best of New South Wales and stood as a role model to us all. She leaves behind a legacy that will endure in our institutions, our communities and the countless lives she touched. Pittwater is very proud that the northern beaches is home to her family. Her passing is deeply sad, but it is also a moment to reflect on all that she represented, to be inspired to live, serve and inspire as she did, to be accomplished but more importantly to be kind, graceful and compassionate and to seek to change the lives of those around us for the better. Pittwater extends its sincere condolences to her family and loved ones and to all who mourn the loss of an exceptional Australian.

Mr RICHIE WILLIAMSON ( Clarence ) ( 15:30 :18 ): It is my honour and privilege to pay respects to the late Dame Marie Bashir and offer the condolences of the good people of the Clarence to her family. She was a truly remarkable Australian who left pleasurable memories for my electorate more than once. I reflect with fondness on the times that I met the Governor of New South Wales. In late 2010, Marie Bashir visited the Grafton Regional Gallery to open an exhibition in her honour. She and Sir Nick enjoyed the gallery and not long after met some very nervous school students. One of the students was in year 6 and became penpals with the Governor. That relationship continued for the whole year, and the whole school got Christmas cards from Her Excellency. I will never forget the students practising saying "Your Excellency". None of them got it right. They were all nervous and said "Excellency" or "Your Royal Highness". That did not worry the Governor.

On 11 February 2011, when I was mayor at Clarence Valley Council, there was a major flooding event, which the current Premier mentioned in his contribution to debate on the condolence motion. The Governor contacted my office and said, "We're coming up. Can you arrange a bit of a tour?" When the Clarence is in flood, the whole place is an island. Thankfully, the SES arranged some transport in the form of a helicopter. We did a tour, starting at Grafton and then going to Ulmarra and Maclean. We spent a couple of hours in Yamba, where the Governor had organised for bottles of water and milk and bread to accompany the SES helicopter. We stayed there for a few hours. The people who were isolated in Yamba for seven days were running over to talk to somebody new, and it just happened to be the Governor of New South Wales. I will never forget the way that she interacted not only with the volunteers but with the residents of Yamba who had been on an island for seven days. She had a calming nature. My community felt comfortable and supported, and got the impression that everything would be all right.

Later that day during our return to Grafton at about three o'clock—we had not had lunch—I said to the Governor, "What would you like to eat?" She said, "I'm a very big fan of the RSL clubs. As a matter of fact, I think I'm the patron." I said, "We'll go to our local RSL." On the way I thought I had better ring the secretary manager Garry Williams to tell him there was a VIP coming. He respectfully informed me that the kitchen was closed. I said, "It doesn't matter whether it's closed or not, we're coming." I said, "Your Excellency, the kitchen is actually closed but we've arranged something." She went out the back and made her own toasted ham, cheese and tomato sandwich at the Grafton District Services Club, and we had a cup of tea and something to eat. That exemplifies how somebody of some stature in our community can connect in the simplest of ways. That story has never left me. I remember exactly what was said when we visited the SES that day. She said, "I'm here to help, and I'm pretty handy with a broom." At that point, everyone in the SES was searching for a broom. That exemplifies the way that Marie Bashir touched us in the simplest of ways.

In 2019, when my electorate was on fire, we looked up in the sky and had a sense of calmness because Marie Bashir was flying over and putting out those fires. I do not know whose idea it was to name a fire tanker in her honour, but it instilled in all of us during that dark time the knowledge that there was still hope and all is not lost because Marie Bashir was above us. In a strange kind of way, she is above us again today looking over the great State of New South Wales. On behalf of the people in my electorate of Clarence, I offer our sincere condolences to the family of the late Dame Marie Bashir. The State of New South Wales has lost a true champion. Rest in peace, Dame Marie Bashir.

Mr MARK COURE ( Oatley ) ( 15:37 :07 ): I contribute to debate on the condolence motion for Dame Marie Bashir. She was a remarkable Australian and a woman who gave so much to New South Wales over a long period of service. Dame Marie carried enormous authority and yet never needed to assert it. She led not by volume or ego but by example. Whether as a psychiatrist, an academic, a chancellor or the Governor of New South Wales, she brought the same qualities to every role: calmness, kindness and a deep respect for people. She broke barriers as the first woman to serve as Governor of this great State, but she never defined herself by that fact alone. Instead, she focused on the job at hand, serving the people of New South Wales with dignity and integrity, and she did that exceptionally well.

Before her vice-regal role, Dame Marie's professional life was devoted to improving lives, particularly in the area of mental health. Long before it became a regular part of public conversation, she understood the importance of mental wellbeing and the damage caused when people are ignored, marginalised or even silenced. Her work was driven by empathy and by a genuine concern for people and their circumstances. Education was another lifelong passion of Dame Marie Bashir. As chancellor of the University of Sydney, Dame Marie believed deeply in learning not just as a pathway to success but as a responsibility. She encouraged young people to think carefully, act ethically and give back to their communities. Many who studied or worked with her have spoken about the impact she had not just on their careers but on how they viewed community service and leadership.

What always stood out to me was how grounded Dame Marie remained. Despite the senior roles that she held, she never lost touch with the community. She was genuinely interested in people; not what they did or what titles they held, but who they were. That was very clear when Dame Marie attended the St George Community Awards, which I host every year. These awards celebrate local volunteers, carers, teachers and community leaders—people who quietly give their time and expect nothing in return from across the St Geroge community. Dame Marie did not attend out of obligation; she attended because she cared. She took the time to speak with each of the award winners, listen to their stories and thank them properly. You could see how much it meant to people to have someone of her standing show such a genuine interest in their work, and you could also see how much it meant to her.

She understood that strong communities are built from the ground up by everyday locals who are doing extraordinary things. To me, that captured Dame Marie perfectly. She believed that leadership should never be distant and that it should always be connected to real lives and real communities. As Governor, Dame Marie served with distinction. She brought stability and wisdom to the role and earned respect across the political spectrum. She was thoughtful in her words, careful in her judgments and deeply aware of the responsibility that came with the office. She was also a powerful role model, particularly for women and young people, and demonstrated that compassion and authority can exist side by side.

To Dame Marie's family—her children, grandchildren and loved ones—we extend our deepest sympathies. Their loss is profound. But they can take comfort in knowing that she leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, in not just institutions or titles, but people, the lives that she touched and the values she lived by. Dame Marie Bashir reminded us that public life is, at its core, about service, about listening and about treating people with dignity. Her example sets a standard that all of us in this place would do well to reflect on. She leaves New South Wales better than she found it, and for that we owe her our thanks. May she rest in peace.