Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Pakenham electorate achievements

Emma VULIN (Pakenham) (16:48): It has been a cold winter, but what warms my heart is the community spirit that continues to shine in my electorate. Bonnie Inkster won the Empowered Women in Trades Apprentice of the Year. I congratulate Bonnie on excelling in the male-dominated motorsport industry. She really is an inspiration for other young women.

Student Farjad Safwan from Minaret College Officer campus was presented the Premier’s VCE award for business management and health and human development. Receiving this prestigious award for two fields of study is a wonderful acknowledgement of his hard work.

Marg Jones is one of Pakenham’s quietest volunteer achievers. As president of the Pakenham Lions Netball Club, she has led the investment in and development of facilities, committees and a generation of netballers. With love and encouragement, Marg continues to mentor and support our local nettie community.

Everyone in Pakenham knows of Bobo and her charity Have a Little Hope. Drawing great strength from personal experience, Bobo understands and believes in people affected by the hardships of suicide, trauma and grief. Bobo’s team work tirelessly to provide food, goods and support to many people without judgement.

Rob Porter OAM was a stalwart of the Officer community for his whole life. Rob passed away last year, yet he remains legendary, particularly at the Officer football and sports recreation reserve, which has recently been named in his honour.

I also want to mention the multicultural swimming program supported by the Officer gurdwara in partnership with Cardinia Life, encouraging people from culturally diverse backgrounds to learn to swim.