As I reflect on our most recent Grandparents Day, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible contributions and sacrifices made by our beloved grandparents, who have played a pivotal role in shaping our lives.

Our grandparents are the unsung heroes of our family history, embodying resilience, wisdom, and unconditional love. They have weathered life's storms and embraced its joys, providing us with a foundation upon which we build our dreams.

As I mentioned on Grandparent's Day, all of my grandparents were born in Italy and migrated to Australia in the 1950's like so many other Italian's did at that time. To think that they gave up everything they knew in the hope to find a better way of life for their families is hard to imagine. But it is that risk and sacrifice that has given me and my parents a wonderful life, but more importantly provided my children with the opportunity to be whoever they choose to be.

So I ask that in celebrating Grandparents Day and with Remembrance Day tomorrow, please take time to pause and acknowledge the sacrifices others have made to ensure we could have the opportunities and comforts we enjoy today. From enduring hardships to making tough choices for the sake of our well-being, their selflessness has paved the way for the lives we lead.

It could be said that their sacrifices are the threads woven into the tapestry of our family story – stories of hard work, perseverance, and a determination to provide a better life for the generations to come. It's in the late nights they spent working, the dreams they set aside, and the countless compromises made to prioritise our needs.

As we honour Grandparents Day and those who fought in wars all over the world, let's find ways express our gratitude and love for the sacrifices they've made. Whether it's through a heartfelt conversation, a simple gesture, or a cherished memory shared, let's take this opportunity to let them know how much their efforts mean to us.

While Granparent's Day is only once a year, I know that many will not just celebrate a day, but a lifetime of devotion and love. Our grandparents have left an indelible mark on our lives, and it's only fitting that we take this day to recognise and appreciate the richness they've added to our family tapestry.