Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown)—The Australia Day Honours recognised 1040 outstanding and inspirational Australians in 2022, and Pamela Comerford, a resident of Charlestown, was one of them.

She received a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to community health. Pam is the co-founder of I Am Here, A Place to Be Me. Officially known as Hunter Brain Injury Respite Options, I Am Here is a provider of respite accommodation services and supported independent living for adults with acquired brain injuries.

Pam's extraordinary journey caring for her son Jason, and her dedication to do everything in her power to ensure that he could live the best possible life, has been the driving force behind I Am Here.

Pam's character and courage are embedded in the guiding principles on which I Am Here is built. The OAM is a fitting recognition of Pam's extraordinary work and legacy, and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient. She is an inspiring woman who shows what can be achieved when we are driven by love and determination. Congratulations Pamela Comerford OAM.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!