Despite global recycling efforts, plastic recovery remains abysmal, with industry lagging behind targets. If industry fails to improve, government intervention is inevitable. The opportunity for a sustainable, innovative approach to packaging is clear; if Australia acts now, it can lead the way in environmentally responsible manufacturing.

Honouring the achievements of Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club and Elouera Surf Life Saving Club members highlights the dedication and spirit these champions bring to our community, from life-saving to competitive excellence.

The Cronulla Sharks have been a pillar of Sutherland Shire sports, fostering the highest number of female players in rugby league, touch, and Oztag across New South Wales, yet their NRLW team faces appalling facility conditions with no federal support, a situation only a Liberal government will address to ensure proper facilities for these athletes.

What a thrill it has been to see Australia, and particularly Cook, punch above its weight on the world stage, with our community represented in record numbers and incredible achievements by athletes across teams like the Cronulla Sharks, Stingers, Aussie Sharks, and Burraneer Women's Rugby Club—each one making Australia and Cook immensely proud.

Attending the awards ceremonies for the esteemed Bate Bay surf clubs—North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club, Wanda Surf Life Saving Club, and Elouera Surf Life Saving Club—highlighted the profound sense of community, family, and service that defines these organisations, as well as the exceptional dedication of their members in safeguarding our beaches.

The Sutherland Shire Relay For Life exemplified Cook's community spirit, with 1,207 participants enduring severe weather to raise $360,000 for cancer research. The dedication of volunteers and major sponsors such as Tradies, ANSTO, Carers Gateway, Caringbah Rotary, Genesis Care, Madame Foodie, Peak Health, and Pilates Power and Physiotherapy in Cronulla provided invaluable support. This collective effort highlights the deep sense of community and care inherent in Cook.