12 November 2024

Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields—Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Minister for Building, and Minister for Corrections) — I congratulate Mr Philip Watt on being awarded a 2024 NSW Government Community Service Award. Mr Watt is a committed community volunteer who has been involved with the local Men's Shed for more than a decade. Mr Watt joined Break the Cycle Men's Shed in 2012, which later became the Macquarie Fields Men's Shed. Mr Watt oversaw the Men's Shed transition to its new premises at Macquarie Road Reserve in 2024. Over the years, Mr Watt has been responsible for the group's successful grant applications to enhance the organisation's facilities and purchase updated equipment. The Men's Shed assist in creating wooden toys for the charity, Operation Christmas Child, and making furniture for local families in need. Mr Watt's volunteerism extends to 1st Macquarie Fields Scout Group, where he held various positions over eight years of active involvement. During this time, Mr Watt managed various activities as Group Leader and worked closely with troubled youth. Mr Watt has been a NSW Justice of the Peace for around 10 years and a regular blood donor. Mr Watt's dedicated service to the community is to be commended.