18 March 2021
Ms TRISH DOYLE (Blue Mountains)—I rise to acknowledge the life of Laurel Harris, a long-time local Labor Branch Member. Laurel lived in the Blue Mountains since 1992. Prior to retiring, she was an Associate Dean in the Faculty of Nursing at Sydney University. Laurel and Norm dedicated their lives to environmental causes, and were key members of Gordon Falls Bushcare - often found weeding, planting and mowing the reserve, much to the delight of other Leura residents. Visitors to the site will note the mountain giants—Eucalyptus Oriades or Mountains Ash forests. They dominated much of the Katoomba-Leura area, but unfortunately only remnants now remain. Laurel's planting or the Oriades is a significant contribution to their sustainability. Laurel had been declining with dementia over the last decade. Her gorgeous husband Norm cared for Laurel over the last few months, himself struggling with a cancer diagnosis. Both Laurel and Norman have contributed much to the community and the Party. Laurel was a delightful person and thoroughly deserved the devotion and attentiveness Norm provided her. Rest in peace, wonderful woman.