tribute

One of Bill Arndell's fondest memories of his time in the NSW Police Force is riding Harley Davidsons with a sidecar. These days the police may not ride Harleys, but they still have one of the most important jobs in our community. Today I recognise and congratulate one of Hornsby's very special senior citizens, James Loder Arndell, who is known affectionately by those around him as Bill. Bill celebrated his 100th birthday on 2 March 2016. A selfless citizen of our community, Bill served in the NSW Police Force for 36 years, from 1940 to 1976.

There are few constants in politics, but last week there was one fewer, with Philip Ruddock calling time on his distinguished career as a member of Parliament. Elected in 1973 to the marginal seat of Parramatta, Philip's biggest worry at the time was to make his career last longer than six months. Tonight, 42 years later, Philip retires as Australia's second longest serving member of the House of Representatives, second only to Billy Hughes. His journey began learning the trade at the feet of his father, Max. Max was an economist who worked in Canberra as the Deputy Prices Commissioner.