When we look back over the last 12 months we can see many achievements and if we look forward to next year there are still many projects to be undertaken. 

I have enjoyed working with the community on so many projects and issues this year and have met so many volunteers who are making such a strong contribution. Some of the landmark anniversaries and re- cords of service are quite remarkable. 

The quiet achievers in our area who have given more than 40 years to the Rural Fire Service for instance, and so many other volunteers in other organisations who have achieved similar records. They show great generosity of spirit and are major contributors to our quality of life in the country.

Next year the Decentralisation Taskforce which I am heading will be consulting widely in regional areas of NSW and making recommendations to relocate government agencies and sections of departments from Sydney. This presents a real opportunity to look at what the government can do to promote economic and population growth in the regions and I look forward to the contributions to the taskforce from our region.

Over the next couple of weeks I will enjoy spending time with my immediate and extended family for the Christmas holiday period. They and my staff join with me in wishing the people of 

the Tablelands a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.