Thursday, 14 November 2024

 Brad ROWSWELL (Sandringham) (10:03): Volunteers are truly the lifeblood of our community, men and women who give of themselves, of their time and of their talents for the benefit of other people and not for themselves. So today I rise to acknowledge the incredible work of the volunteers and workers of the Mentone Community Assistance and Information Bureau, who this year mark serving our community for 50 years. It was an honour to visit the bureau in September and witness firsthand the compassion and dedicated service they offer to our community. Under the leadership of manager Kathy Hassall and secretary Cecilia Stone, the bureau assists families and individuals in urgent need of support, helping them stay on top of bills and avoid financial hardship. Their team of volunteers goes above and beyond to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are struggling, often ensuring that working families in crisis are not left behind. In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis the bureau’s role has never been more crucial. Rising costs for essential goods and services are putting immense pressure on households, and the bureau provides vital and timely relief, helping to stabilise families and ensure our community remains strong and resilient. I want to extend my gratitude and admiration to the volunteers and workers at the Mentone Community Assistance and Information Bureau, who will be joining us in Parliament later today. To Pauline Abourizk, Sue Bingham, Russel Bingham, Michelle Bean, Robyn Fairhall, Kathy Hassall, Denise Stirling, Cecilia Stone, Brendon King, Ram Krishnamoorthy and others who will not be joining us.