Thursday, 30 November 2023

 Belinda WILSON (Narre Warren North) (10:08): It has officially been a year since I was elected as the member for Narre Warren North and when Victoria resoundingly re-elected a Labor government for a third term – and what a year it has been. It is an absolute honour to represent my community of Narre Warren North in state Parliament, and I am so proud of what we have achieved. We have had significant investment in our local schools, and I am very excited to report that a $24.2 million expansion of Hallam Secondary College is well underway, as well as – how can I forget – the level crossing removal at Webb Street. The boom gates are gone, the old station has been demolished and we are on track for an opening in 2024. It has been amazing to work alongside all the sports clubs, multicultural groups, senior clubs, schools and charities to deliver what matters for our community.

I want to say a huge shout-out to everyone that has supported me in the first year, many of them in this chamber now, and especially to my electorate office. To Millie, Matt, Moz, Noel, Marni and Josh, thank you for everything that you do. To my family, my three greatest achievements Bridie, Kane and Ned, thank you for the support and love that you give me. It is not always easy being a child of an MP, and your love and support is everything to me. It has been an incredible year for this government. I cannot wait for Parliament next year to continue and to do what matters. Very quickly in my last moment, it is a very special birthday today. I want to say a very happy birthday to the member for Cranbourne, our whip. Have a happy birthday!