It's been a monumental year

It was the year I gave up a 27-year career as a broadcaster and asked the people of the Dubbo electorate to place their faith in me as their representative in the NSW Parliament.

It was a year of uncertainty and learning on the run, as I moved out of my comfort zone and into a new career

The enormity of being given that responsibility is not lost on me, and for that reason 2019 is a year I won't forget in a hurry.

At home, my eldest daughter Georgie finished Year 12 and is about to embark on a new adventure of her own, and both myself and Karen are proud beyond belief.

We always say at this time of year that it is great to spend time with family and celebrate, but to some extent we take that for granted.

This year, in particular, because I have been so busy I am looking forward to spending as much time as possible with my girls.

I encourage everyone across the electorate to do the same with their loved ones.

I am confident that 2020 will be another big year for Dubbo and the surrounding areas that make up this wonderful electorate.

But before we get there, we need to soak up the spirit of what Christmas is all about and simply enjoy each other's company.

I wish everyone in the electorate a Merry Christmas and look forward to working hard for you all again in the new year.