Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—I would like to recognise James Gardiner for his outstanding contribution to sports journalism in our region and his recent success at the Australian Sports Commission Media Awards. The Newcastle Herald journalist was awarded Best Coverage of Local and Community Sport, recognising his exceptional reporting on sport across the Hunter. James was one of four finalists in the national category and secured the award for the second consecutive year, following his success in 2024. His winning submission showcased a wide range of work, including Newcastle Jets exclusives and a compelling feature examining the extraordinary dedication behind the Hunter Wildfires women's rugby union team reaching the grand final. In that feature, James highlighted the remarkable commitment of players and coaches who collectively travelled more than 100,000 kilometres during the season. James has long been a trusted voice in local sports reporting. Through his work, he continues to shine a spotlight on the athletes, teams and volunteers who make sport such an important part of our regional identity. I congratulate James on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his continued dedication to telling the stories of sport in our community.

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!