Tuesday, 15 October 2024

 Michaela SETTLE (Eureka) (12:58): I rise to talk about what was an absolutely extraordinary weekend in my electorate. The sun shone on the Australian Open Cup as it visited the Bacchus Marsh tennis club, the Bacchus Marsh Baptist Church spring fair was full of families enjoying the sunshine and the Bacchus Marsh Little Aths season launch was off to a running start. In the evening I had a wonderful night with the Bacchus Marsh CFA as they recognised with service awards their outstanding volunteers.

I also want to highlight two really important events over the weekend. On Sunday morning I attended the Ballarat Mental Health Collective for a fantastic event around Lake Esmond. This event brought together many organisations and groups who support people and their carers living with mental health issues. As we enter into National Carers Week I think it is really important that we acknowledge all of those people who contribute. A big shout-out to the amazing Rael Cartledge for organising this event. It is now in its second year. On Sunday afternoon I attended a joyous occasion in Bacchus Marsh to celebrate, a little early, Diwali. This colourful and cultural event is also in its second year, and I want to congratulate UNITE Foundation Inc, a wonderful local community group, for putting on such a wonderful event.