Thursday, 6 February 2025

 Vicki WARD (Eltham – Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality) (10:30): A big shout-out to the Veggie Empire and their farm gate in St Helena where I recently bought some fresher-than-fresh fresh veggies and flowers. I was also able to congratulate the wonderful team on their nearly $50,000 grant from VicHealth under the Growing Healthy Communities grant. This helps them continue supporting people with intellectual disabilities in meaningful work, growing and selling locally grown fruit, veg and seedlings. I was also able to wish Scotty, a mad Melbourne supporter, a happy birthday. And I can tell you, Deputy Speaker, that the produce and the seedlings are nothing short of fantastic.

The Veggie Empire has also benefitted from a $30,000 grant via the North East Community Fund, helping revitalise and rehabilitate vegetation on their site, which also has supported the establishment of their wonderful farm gate. The farm gate is open on Wednesdays from 10:00 till 1:00, and there are plans to eventually open on the weekend. I congratulate this wonderful, friendly and inclusive team, including Josh, Scott, Kat, Patrick and Rachel for their fantastic success.