SPEECH TO AUSTRALIAN ROTARY WING GROUP

_{29 June, 2008}

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Thank you Minister.

Congratulations to all of you on a job very well done.  You have made a magnificent contribution in Australia’s interests and I want to join everyone else in Australia in thanking you for what you have done.

I bring the particular thanks and good wishes of Dr Brendan Nelson, the Leader of the Opposition who, as you will recall, was formerly the Defence Minister as well as the Shadow Minister for Defence, Senator Minchin and particularly from local Member, Peter Lindsay who is distressed that he could not be here to welcome you today.  I think this would be the first Welcome Home Peter has ever missed but he simply physically could not get here today to welcome you back.

You guys have done a fabulous job in very difficult circumstances and in the face of danger.  It is not easy, and you have all performed so well, in a way that makes your country very proud of you.

I particularly want to thank not only you guys but also your loved ones, your friends and family who have supported you while you have been away and who through their support and love also make a contribution to Australia’s interests.

I wish you all the best and hope that you are allowed to have a few days off to get together with your loved ones and friends to experience being back in Australia and to re-connect with your families and the country you so proudly served.

Well done all of you and welcome home!

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