Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Colin BROOKS (Bundoora – Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Minister for Creative Industries) (10:09): I rise today to recognise the outstanding contribution of the Mill Park Tamil Seniors Social Club and one of its most dedicated members Mr Auruluswarren. Led by president Kulasingam, known as Kula, the club is a vibrant and active organisation in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and continues to foster leadership, connection and community participation. Importantly, the club plays a vital role in promoting multiculturalism, bringing people together in a spirit of inclusion, respect and shared understanding. The heart of this organisation is Mr Auruluswarren, a 92-year-old pillar of Victoria’s Tamil community. After migrating to Australia in the early 1990s from his war-torn homeland, he sought to rebuild not just his life but a sense of community for others. Recognising the need for support among Tamil seniors in the north, he founded the organisation in July 2002.

In its earliest days, when facilities were limited, gatherings were held in members’ homes. Mr Auruluswarren and his wife prepared meals, organised transport and ensured that every member felt welcomed and connected. For more than three decades he has given tirelessly to the community, serving as treasurer, president and vice-president and, despite health challenges, continues to mentor others today, with the club growing in number from 16 members originally through to more than 135 today. Mr Auruluswarren is an inspiring example of service, strength and the commitment of multicultural communities in Victoria. I commend the Mill Park Tamil Seniors Social Club and thank Mr Auruluswarren for his remarkable contribution.