Can I say to you, ladies and gentlemen, that I have enjoyed the association that I have had with your industry. Ron Finemore has been a very strong and articulate advocate of the interests of your industry. He s never been reluctant to put a point of view to the Government that has been controversial, where that point of view has been in the interest of your industry. He s never been unwilling to criticise where that criticism has been justified. But he is a good representative, a forthright representative of your industry.
Tonight is a very important occasion.
I know it s an occasion where you look back on the last 10 years in particular with a very great sense of pride and a sense of achievement. Thank you for inviting me here tonight. I assure you that the Government will continue to lend a ready ear to your concerns and your legitimate advocacy. And I know in John Anderson you have a person who is particularly attuned to the concerns and needs of your industry. He is a constant advocate of the role of your sector in the Australian economy.