Ms MAY (10:53 PM) —As patron of the Gold Coast Combined Martial Arts Academy, I recently had the pleasure of officially opening the Open Friendship Tournament. More than 300 competitors, some aged as young as four years, from Queensland, New South Wales, New Zealand and Japan competed in this tournament. What was unique about this event was that it was non-discriminatory in that it brought together a range of martial art styles. All competitors had the opportunity not only to challenge themselves competitively but perhaps learn more about a new style with which they may not already be acquainted. I would take this opportunity to congratulate Bill Wakefield, the founder of the Combined Martial Arts Academy, on his organisation of this event.

Mr Swan —Is he a black belt?

Ms MAY —Bill, an extremely dynamic and well trained man—yes, a black belt—started the Combined Martial Arts Academy 12 years ago, with a vision to educate both men and women in martial arts and for them to gain many benefits from the sport such as discipline, self-defence skills and fitness, to name but a few. Bill's progressive thinking and thirst for knowledge of martial arts has led him to study various styles. He is not only well respected within the Gold Coast community but throughout Australia as a mentor to martial arts enthusiasts.

I have heard some wonderful stories about this man—how he has given countless women the confidence to feel free from the fear of being defenceless in the event of an encounter, and how he has assisted scores of disabled people to develop new skills and grow as individuals. Martial arts is not only about the physical side but the spiritual side.

Tournaments such as this are an opportunity for people of all ages to further develop their skills and promote martial arts. They are also important in educating the public on the importance of fitness and self-defence techniques. I congratulate Bill and his band of volunteers, including Michael Gatenby, who organised this tournament.

Earlier in the year, I had the pleasure of facilitating a cheque presentation from the Combined Martial Arts Academy to the Palm Beach Family Support Service, a community service group which was desperately in need of funds. The academy gladly took up the opportunity to assist this service, which provides food and other essential items for needy members of the community at the southern end of the Gold Coast.

It was a delight to see so many people who are disciplined and share a dedication to martial arts compete in the Open Friendship Tournament. I commend the efforts of all involved in organising the competition and the competitors for their commitment to the sport. In closing tonight, I would like to wish all members and staff in this House a merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year.

Question resolved in the negative.