Parliamentary Procedure

BROOK, MR P.

The SPEAKER (14:03): I would like to point out to members that today is the last day in this chamber for Mr Perry Brook, Head Attendant of the Office of Sergeant-at-Arms. Mr Brook has held the positions of attendant in this place from 11 February 1980 to 6 March 1989, chamber attendant from 6 February 1989 to 6 March 1998, and Head Attendant from 6 March 1998 until tomorrow. He will be retiring tomorrow—but, of course, we all know that he has been about to retire forever! If he is here on Monday, do not be surprised.

I am told that Mr Brook is a devoted Crows supporter. He is a husband, a father and a grandfather, in that order. Perry came to the House of Assembly from Tip Top Bakery, where he was a bread carter—good training for this place! He was appointed as a corridor messenger on 11 February 1980, so he has had considerable service in this place. He became the chamber messenger, as I said, in September 1983, and for a number of years he relieved in the position of head attendant and was then permanently appointed to that position on 6 March 1998.

I understand that, in his younger days, Mr Brook had a dazzling career with Norwood Football Club. However, I also understand that his cricket career never actually took off. His other interests include trotting and motorsports.

He has had over 30 years of loyal service to the House of Assembly. He has seen over 150 members pass through this chamber, and he has seen seven premiers and 10 speakers pass through this chamber. I am pleased to say that in this instance this Speaker has lasted longer than him! I am sure we will all miss him but we wish him well in his retirement. We will certainly miss his humour, and, of course, we will all miss his complaints!

So, to Perry, from all the members here (past and present) we wish you all the best. We thank you for your loyal support over the years. The staff in this place are extremely loyal to us and we really count on that support, and you have certainly maintained a very high standard in that area. Good luck to you in your retirement. Enjoy your retirement—don't come back! We wish you all the best, and thank you.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!