(Community Recognition Statement, 10 November 2021, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament) 

On behalf of the Sydney Electorate, I thank Nicola Anderson and the 'Give a Dog a Bone Keep Kitty Happy' Christmas Appeal for their voluntary efforts supporting companion animals.

The annual appeal provided toys and food to homeless pets for 13 years. The appeal asked people to add an item for a dog or cat to their shopping basket or donate unwanted food, toys, towels or blankets, which volunteers collected and delivered to animal shelters, animal rescue charities and homelessness services across Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the Central Coast. Nicola started small collecting donations from her friends, family and social network to support companion animals of people who are homeless and pets in shelters and foster care in 2007, and by 2019 the appeal provided food and toys to 25 organisations from a range of donation drop off points, including the Sydney electorate office.

I thank these dedicated volunteers for their 13 year contribution to helping homeless people and their pets, and companion animals abandoned and rescued or awaiting new homes.