Tuesday, 8 March 2022

 Ms VALLENCE (Evelyn) (12:49): I wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to and congratulate a number of incredible people from my local community in the Evelyn electorate who received Yarra Ranges Council Australia Day awards. Keren Greenwood, Citizen of the Year, was instrumental in establishing a food bank in the Yarra Ranges, which in particular played a vital role over the last two years of the pandemic supporting families in need. David Ferrier was recognised for his extremely valuable input after the devastation of the cyclonic storms in June last year, developing a database of high-value timber locally. Caladenia Dementia Care and Sarah Yeates, as Community Group of the Year, were nimble in delivering an innovative program to ensure high-quality support for families and clients with dementia throughout the pandemic. And of course Mount Evelyn RSL were recognised for their ongoing work supporting ex-service people and showcasing the rich history in our region. Congratulations to all award recipients.