News

SYDNEY: The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC Australia) has awarded NSW Deputy Premier, the Honourable Mr. John Watkins with the Friend of the Armenian-Australian Community Award at its Annual Banquet on Saturday evening. Over 150 guests gathered at The Epping Club’s Grand Ballroom applauded, as Mr. Watkins, the State Member for the heavily Armenian-populated seat of Ryde, graciously accepted the award in absentia, via video message. “I am truly honoured to receive this award from a community I hold dear to my heart,” said Mr. Watkins. “There is no community more involved in the political process than the Armenian community, and to be honoured as its ‘Friend’ is humbling.” Mr. Watkins was instrumental in the NSW Parliament’s unanimous passing of the Armenian Genocide bill in 1997, recognising and condemning the first Genocide of the 20th Century. Mr. Varant Meguerditchian, President of ANC Australia, said Mr. Watkins deserved the honour for his efforts in advancing the issues concerning the Armenian-Australian community. “We congratulate Mr. Watkins,” said Mr. Meguerditchian. “The Deputy Premier is a deserved recipient of this honour due to his continuous support of our community.” Mr. Watkins joins Peter Collins, Bob Carr and Joe Hockey on the Friend of the Armenian-Australian Community Award honour roll.