(Community Recognition Statements, 21 November 2023, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I'd like to acknowledge the 50 years of the Paddington Markets on 28 October. The market hosts over 150 unique stalls from local artists, craftspeople, bakers and chefs who sell their goods directly to the community on Paddington's well-known Oxford Street. The stalls have just about everything: international foods, handmade chocolates, plants and flowers, to creative fashion and accessories, beautiful smelling soaps and candles and pictures. Since 1973 the Paddington Uniting Church has hosted this non-profit community event as part of their contribution to community and inclusion. Paddington Markets is Sydney's oldest continuous weekly community and artisan market. It's become quite an institution, attracting local residents and visitors to the Paddington precinct and Oxford Street shops and services. I congratulate the Paddington Uniting Church for this long term commitment to the community that helps sustain local creatives, craftspeople and makers, and which helps build a strong sense of place in Oxford Street Paddington. Best wishes to the Paddington Markets for many more years.