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House of Assembly - Fifty-Second Parliament, Second Session (52-2)
2013-05-15 Daily Xml
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Ministerial Statement

BALUCH, JOY

The Hon. J.W. WEATHERILL (Cheltenham—Premier, Treasurer, Minister for State Development, Minister for the Public Sector, Minister for the Arts) (14:00): On indulgence, I was deeply saddened to learn that last night the longstanding mayor of Port Augusta, Ms Joy Baluch AM, passed away after a lengthy battle with illness. She was 80 years of age. Now is not the time for a condolence motion, and I propose that we do that when Joy's family can be here in Adelaide, but I do want to say a few words regarding Joy.

Mayor Baluch was, of course, well known to all of us in this chamber. She was an extraordinarily prominent figure not only Port Augusta but within South Australia more widely. She is, of course, known for her outspoken advocacy of behalf of Port Augusta and regional South Australia, and she has served with intelligence and strength. We all remember her oft-stated remarks that Port Augusta is the centre of the universe.

Sadly, Joy will miss out on the official naming of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge, which is to be held this Friday in Port Augusta. I have spoken today to Michelle, her daughter. She told me that Joy passed with family around her the other evening, and she was comfortable and she was alert, and she fought right until the end. Her daughter told her that the doctors were staggered that she lasted so long, but that is the Joy that we all knew and loved.

Michelle also indicated she would like the event on Friday to continue. I also invited her to come to Adelaide to hear the condolence motion, and will organise with her and the other members of the house an appropriate time for that to occur. I have also offered her family the support of the South Australian government to ensure that the funeral service is a significant and fitting tribute to her life.

Mr MARSHALL (Norwood—Leader of the Opposition) (14:03): I rise to echo the comments of the Premier. On behalf of the Liberal Party of South Australia I pass on our sincere condolences to the family of Port Augusta Mayor Joy Baluch AM. Joy was a great South Australian who made a tremendous contribution to this state over many decades. I look forward to the opportunity to make more expansive remarks on the life of Joy Baluch in the near future.

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