Thursday, 5 February 2026

 Vicki WARD (Eltham – Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality) (10:09): We have incredible community groups in my electorate, and I thank them for creating an inclusive Australia Day celebration: Eltham Lions Club, Diamond Valley Lions Club, Rotary Club of Eltham, Eltham Men’s Shed, Eltham Guides and Imagine Re-Evolution. Coordinated by the Eltham Lions Club, this event brought the community together and highlighted values we share as locals and as Australians: kindness, mateship and looking out for each other. 26 January is a day of celebration for many Australians, which can also be a difficult day for First Australians. In the warmth of the town square, with music from the karaoke choir and men’s shed band, the sausages on the barbie and the laughter of children making craft, the chatter of locals catching up was fantastic.