(Community Recognition Notices, 23 May 2023, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I wish to thank Police Leading Senior Constable Craig Parkinson for 16 years of service to the Surry Hills community as Crime Prevention Officer who has now retired. My office has worked with Craig for many years, relying on his ability to look at ways to prevent crime with practical measures and linking people with mental health and alcohol and drug services to get support. He's been a vital help for vulnerable people with complex needs for whom arrests, fines and prison don't help. Craig was the key Surry Hills contact for addressing problems like public injecting, graffiti, mail theft, neighbourhood disputes and anti-social behaviour – all concerns that impact on safety and amenity but require creative responses that involve a range of health and welfare organisations. Craig facilitated the Community Safety Precinct Committee for many years, bringing together local stakeholders to identify safety concerns, plan responses and take coordinated action. He patiently built effective working relationships across businesses, residents, government and service providers. I thank Craig for his many years' service to the Surry Hills community which helped make it a great place to live, work and visit.