Wednesday, 19 November 2025

 Matt FREGON (Ashwood) (10:15): It is Australian Music Month again, and with some help from Triple J and a nod to Molly Meldrum let us count down to 26. Now, I can assure those on the other side that we will never be like you. No matter how much you say, ‘Throw your arms around me’, Victorians know you are walking on a dream – and while you are asking them, ‘Are you going to be my girl? – or guy?’ Meanwhile, on this side of the house we are meeting Victorians where they are. We are getting to her door, to his door. We are getting on with what matters, getting down under the detail and delivering for Victorians. Others might get on a big jet plane thinking the less I know the better – and let us face it, you cannot blame them when their beds are burning. Victorians know this government is making tomorrow better, giving this state an inner bloom and a positive future. They say, ‘You’re the voice.’ These days in this place are a privilege, ones I know we are all proud to be gifted. Some have informed the house that they will be calling time next year, and I was a little thunderstruck to hear from them. I do wonder if I am ever going to see your face again. But it is a sign of the best of this place, to see the sweet disposition of these members. I guess for some, you will be someone I used to know. We are not here to learn how to make gravy, but it is getting to that time of year. It is okay. Santa is coming soon. We will be moving from flame trees to Christmas trees. My happiness is working every day for the people of Ashwood so others do not dream it is over – will not leave a scar. Our government remains untouched. And for those in the nosebleed section over there: you will never tear us apart.