Steve McGHIE (Melton) (19:20): Today, as bushfires continue to burn across Victoria, we come together to recognise the extraordinary courage, resilience and dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to protect our communities during an incredibly challenging period. On the hottest day ever recorded in our state’s history, reaching an unprecedented 48.9 degrees, our CFA, SES volunteers, firefighters, paramedics, police officers and emergency services personnel stood on the front line in conditions that tested the limits of human endurance. While most sought shelter from the extreme heat, these men and women ran towards danger, placing the safety of others above their own. They worked around the clock, often for long shifts with little rest, defending homes, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure. They faced unpredictable fire behaviour, extreme temperatures and exhausting conditions yet never wavered in their commitment to serving the community. Their professionalism, skill and bravery saved lives and reduced the devastating impact of these fires.
I also acknowledge the vital role played by community members: neighbours checking on neighbours, families opening their homes to those forced to evacuate, volunteers providing food, water and shelter and local organisations stepping up in times of need. These acts of kindness and solidarity reflect the very best of Victoria.
To our emergency services personnel and volunteers in Melton: we thank you for responding to and getting fires across the electorate under control. Whether it be in Melton, Toolern Vale, Eynesbury, Bacchus Marsh, Coimadai, Rockbank or Parwan, your service to the community never goes unnoticed. We are all grateful for your courage, compassion and duty, on behalf of our community and all Victorians.