I want to thank the Nationals Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis who will retire from politics at the next election.
When the people of Clarence elected Chris to be their voice in Macquarie Street 11 years ago, he promised he would fight for them and work tirelessly. He has done just that.
His legacy will be evident for decades to come for anyone driving along the North Coast – an upgraded Pacific Highway that has saved hundreds of lives; a second Grafton bridge promised by Labor but only delivered by the Nationals in Government; and better health facilities including securing funding for a major redevelopment of the Grafton Base Hospital.
As local Member, Chris has also fought for new ambulance stations at Iluka and Casino; upgrades to the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange at Casino, the Grafton Regional Galley and Casino Showground and secured funding for construction of Australia’s largest prison, creating hundreds of new jobs.
He has served as a Parliamentary Secretary for key portfolio areas affecting the regions including Agriculture, Forestry, Regional Roads and Regional Planning.
On behalf of the NSW Government and the NSW Nationals, I want to thank Chris for his hard work, advocacy and the support he has shown his community through challenging times like floods and fires.
I wish Chris and Vicki and their family all the best for the future.
