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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2002 Week 13 Hansard (21 November) . . Page.. 3979 ..


Ms MacDONALD (continuing):

I find it absolutely abhorrent that Mr Nile would use his position in such a way, which I believe is inclined to incite violence. I am aware that Mr Nile is a bigot and a religious zealot, but I had not realised that he would go as far as to incite violence, whether it be the violence of verbal abuse or violence of another kind, with his remarks. I abhor his remarks. I am glad to hear that the suggestion was rejected out of hand.

Death of Mrs Rosario Costa

MS GALLAGHER (6.52): I rise to speak briefly about a woman called Rosario Costa, whom I had the privilege of working with and who sadly passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, 17 November. Rosario Costa was one of those people our community relies on, one of those who contribute significantly to the community and seek no recognition for their work.

I met Rosario in 1999 when I joined the board of Woden Community Service. Rosario was elected to the board seven years ago, after responding to a request for interested people to consider coming on to the board. She was a constant contributor to board discussions and decisions, and she had a strong commitment to the principles of social justice.

Rosario recently played a significant role in the preparation of the strategic plan for Woden Community Service heading into the year 2004-2005. She was known for her enthusiasm, humour and constant commitment to her role and duties as a member of the board of a community organisation. She will be sorely missed by all.

Rosario was 46 when she passed away. She is survived by her husband, Michael, and their two children, Sabrina and Leigh. I extend my sincere sympathies to Rosario's family and friends.

Death of Mr Frank Fulton

MR STEFANIAK (6.53): I would like to note the sad passing several weeks ago of the principal of Daramalan College, Mr Frank Fulton. Frank was the first lay principal of the college, although he had been in the priesthood in the early 1960s. He was posted to the college as a young priest. He subsequently left the priesthood and married his charming wife, and they had four magnificent children.

Frank coached one of college's rugby teams. He coached Peter McGrath, who played with the Raiders, John Hardy and several others who have done very well in their codes. Peter McGrath is currently president of the ACT Rugby Union.

Frank came back to the college five years ago as principal. He was an incredibly learned man. He was incredibly well read. He could speak about six languages fluently. He was very much a classical scholar, and he instilled in his four children a love of learning.

I was with Frank the Wednesday before he died. He died on a Thursday. My wife was ill. I could not take her to the Daramalan school play at the Street Theatre, so I took my young son Joseph. I had a glass of wine with Frank at interval. He seemed fine then. He wanted me to stay afterwards to have another drink with him. My young bloke was a bit tired. It was a heavy play, and I think Joseph was more interested in seeing people


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