MEMBER for Port Macquarie Rob Dwyer reflected on his first 12 months in parliament during a speech to the Rotary Club of Laurieton on Monday night, 9 March.
The Rotarian and former Secretary Manager of Laurieton United Services Club, recalled starting work at the club at age 23, never anticipating that he would spend 34 years at LUSC.
He told News Of The Area, “I was fresh out of university when I went to work at the club, and I really thought I knew everything.
“I’m proud to have overseen the digitising of the administration system and watched the club go from strength to strength, thanks to great corporate governance and outstanding staff.”
While extremely active in many areas of the community, particularly initiatives involving youth, sport, and homelessness, Mr Dwyer had never considered a political career until he was approached by former Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams, three years ago.
Mrs Williams resigned during her term following the death of her husband.
This led to a by-election, paving the way for a change of direction for Mr Dwyer.
He now spends 26 weeks a year sitting in parliament.
NSW Parliament House has a rich history.
Initially constructed in 1816 as a hospital funded by the sale of thousands of gallons of rum, it is the oldest public building in Sydney and has been the home of politics since 1829.
Mr Dwyer told News Of The Area, “It is a privilege to work in such a spectacular building, and I still get butterflies when I think about it.
“I’m incredibly lucky to have staff that know so much and have built wonderful connections. I’d be lost without them.”
By Rachael THORPE
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