As the former Minister for the Environment and Heritage prepares for life after politics she can be proud of what she has achieved for this great city of ours.

Mrs Parker will be long remembered for the major improvements to the city’s two busiest roundabouts on the New England Highway and starting the ball rolling on a new public hospital to be built at Metford.

Mrs Parker and her staff have worked tirelessly to secure many other benefits for the city, including $5.6 million for the redevelopment of Maitland Sportsground, $15 million for upgrades at Rutherford Technology High School and a $2 million refurbishment of Maitland Hospital Mental Health Unit.

Talk to people involved in any of these projects and they sing Mrs Parker’s praises.

Mrs Parker first entered politics in 2003 determined to make a difference as a member of the Legislative Council.

True to her word Mrs Parker was soon appointed chairwoman of a number of inquiries where she was able to enact changes in fields as diverse as bullying in schools, the NSW ambulance service and the provision of eduction to children with a disability.

These actions speak volumes of a woman who has devoted 12 years of her life to public service.

Mrs Parker says she will continue to work hard as the Member for Maitland until the next election and there is no doubting she will be true to her word.

The next Member for Maitland, regardless of political affiliations, will have big shoes to fill.

Mrs Parker has shown integrity and grace under fire. She will be sadly missed.