Diamond Valley Foodshare
Colin BROOKS (Bundoora – Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Minister for Creative Industries) (09:45): I rise today to acknowledge a significant organisation in my electorate and the incredible work of Diamond Valley Foodshare, who have been helping our community’s most vulnerable people since 1992. Each year the group provides around 50,000 meals to those in need, with around 400 individuals receiving meals in any given month. I would like to especially acknowledge two outstanding volunteers Kerrie Boyle and Sue Ioannidis, who were recently honoured for their outstanding efforts at the 2025 Jagajaga Community Volunteer Awards run by federal MP Kate Thwaites. I know the member for Eltham was there to recognise their service as well. Kerrie has been volunteering with Diamond Valley Foodshare for nearly six years, currently holding the title of roster secretary. Kerrie’s contribution to this organisation is described as being invaluable, as she is constantly presenting new ideas and solving issues, making everyone feel cared for and included. Sue has dedicated the last seven years to volunteering for Diamond Valley Foodshare. She constantly demonstrates her kindness, energy and passion in her role as shared secretary. Sue exemplifies the volunteer spirit and regularly spends her weeks packing food and taking on extra tasks when needed. I would like to thank Kerrie, Sue and the entire team of volunteers at Diamond Valley Foodshare for their compassion, their commitment and the lasting impact that they leave on thousands of community members. Our community is truly a better place for their work.