Concetta Fierravanti-Wells (NSW, Liberal Party, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary Assisting the Leader in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

It is with sadness this evening that we formally farewell a wonderful colleague and a true gentleman. Since coming to the Senate in May 2005, I have truly enjoyed working with you, Chris, and sharing many of the highs and lows that make up our daily lives in this place. When I first heard you referred to as ‘Choof’, I thought, ‘How appropriate.’ In Italian, ‘ciuffo’ means a tuft of hair. So every time I see your grey hair, I think, ‘It’s so appropriate that you’re called Choof.’ I have not worked out what Choof actually means in English, but perhaps all might be revealed tonight.

In your maiden speech, you set out your values and beliefs, and in that speech you enunciated your conservative philosophy and your hopes and aspirations for your time in the Senate. You can be truly proud that you have fulfilled your ambitions. In the time that I have known you, I have shared your conservative approach and I have been very proud that we have supported many similar causes. I thank you for the courtesy, the understanding and the guidance that you have given me during my time in this place. Your measured approach and your understanding and willingness to engage your colleagues have been the hallmark of the many roles that you have undertaken.

In particular, I know that you have left a considerable mark on those areas that you took such a passionate interest in. These have been, especially, justice, customs, border security and immigration issues. Rest assured that there will be amongst our ranks those who will continue your legacy. I hope that you will also continue your involvement in the Liberal Party in Western Australia. Under your tutelage, Western Australia has a good history of sending solid citizens to Canberra. I hope that branch development in Western Australia continues to be one of your pastimes. In conclusion, Chris, I wish you, Caroline and all your family all the very, very best for the future.