(Community Recognition Statement, 9 March 2017, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

I congratulate the Kirketon Road Centre and Director Dr Ingrid van Beek. The centre celebrates 30 years of world-leading operation this year. Dr van Beek celebrates 28 years working with the centre first as a clinician, later as director.

KRC is a centre of excellence working with vulnerable, marginalised and alienated people who usually struggle to get health care, including at risk young people, injecting drug users and sex workers. The approach adds to the GP services with innovative and responsive outreach, consumer partnerships, support groups, needle exchange and drop-in clinics.

Dr van Beek has been an inspiring advocate for effective health services for those most at risk of harm. She has shepherded KRC through pioneering drug and HIV service provision and championed the establishment and operation of the Kings Cross Medically Supervised Injecting Centre. 

I thank KRC for many years of service. I thank Ingrid van Beek for her outstanding commitment and record of achievement and wish her well on her retirement.