Mrs PHILLIPS (Gilmore) (11:44):  Today I rise to pay my respects, on behalf of people in the Gilmore electorate, on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and, in doing so, acknowledge Her Majesty's extraordinary life of dedication to service, country and Commonwealth.

There has been an absolute outpouring of sadness that Queen Elizabeth II has passed on, but there has also been immense interest in learning more about Her Majesty's extraordinary, 70-year reign. Her Majesty touched the lives of so many people. I think it's also fair to say that we've been getting a history lesson in royal protocol. After all, it's been 70 years since Queen Elizabeth II's own father, King George VI, passed away and Elizabeth became Queen, at just 25 years of age. Most people, myself included, have known no other Queen as head of the Commonwealth. For a young Queen in a male-dominated world to help steer that change over 70 years as Queen truly was extraordinary. The Queen saw wars, pandemics, the introduction of technology such as the internet, changes in the workplace—the list goes on. Through it all, the Queen was always there, a steady force.

On her 21st birthday, the Queen said, 'I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service,' and that's just what Her Majesty did. What we are seeing now is an outpouring of recognition of the dignity with which Her Majesty navigated all of life's ups and downs.

Mr Speaker, I placed official condolence books in my electorate offices at both Nowra and Batemans Bay, and the books kept filling up. But, of course, that should come as no surprise. I'm now going to read some of the messages from my constituents, because they say it so well.

Lawrence said:

What a great loss to the world, how lucky we were to have her in our lives. My condolences to her family. She was a remarkable woman.

Charmaine said:

Thank you, well done, good and faithful servant—you kept the Commonwealth together through thick and thin—your love for the people, your husband and your family (and dogs, and horses) shone through every year of your service. God bless you—and your family.

Cheryl said:

Remembering all the wonderful service given by a grand, kind and remarkable Queen and woman. Forever grateful for all her dedication and also the incredible example to us all of honour, dignity, kindness and devotion. God bless our beloved Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II now with our Lord Jesus forever.

Cynthia said:

Queen Elizabeth II, you have been an inspiration to all women. Thank you for your dedication of duty to the Commonwealth and your people. You kept your promise that you would serve your people which you did, above and beyond. We appreciate all your efforts through the tough times where you displayed leadership although painful periods. God bless the Queen.

Tom said:

Legends never die—you were and continue to be a legend. An inspiration to all young women around the world and a leader the future generation will strive to be. Thank you for everything.

Pat said:

You lived your life as you promised, like one of your thoroughbred horses—a race you did not expect to run. But, with grace and strength you took the reins and you cleared the hurdles with strength and grace—and you won. Well done.

Anne said:

Queen Elizabeth II, thank you for your inestimable, inspirational life of service to your people. As Queen of Australia you were a constant extraordinary figure in the background of my whole life. A Queen who remarkably commanded respect and love on the world stage for all her reign. Your beauty, grace and dignity will always be remembered, along with the selfless devotion to the Commonwealth of nations. May you Rest in Peace.

Daryl said:

A truly beautiful lady. So well respected and admired. Saying goodbye to your majesty Queen Elizabeth was so sad. Like saying goodbye to my mum a second time. Thank you for your dedication. Rest in Peace.

Valerie and Richard said:

Rest in Peace our dear Queen. You served us well and for so long. You will be remembered fondly forever.

So many beautiful condolences for Her Majesty the Queen, which sum up the true depth of love and thankfulness for her service! May she rest in peace.