Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (17:38): (1638) My adjournment is for the Premier, and the action I seek is to be provided with an update on how we can best support and celebrate our wonderful Christian community. The Broadmeadows electorate is home to lots of churches and Christian communities, many who generously give their time to help others in a huge variety of ways, including through food relief, and I was really pleased with our increase in funding to food relief today. St Mark’s in Fawkner runs the Hope Cafe, giving people doing it tough the dignity of a three-course meal every Thursday night. I occasionally get to help them out, but I take this opportunity to sincerely thank those that turn up week after week to generously give them time to serve, including Krystene, Luch, Dylan, Anagie, Stella, Marianne, Sandra, Maria, Mary, Luke, Phil, Virginia, John, Jacinta, Kellie, Joe, Clare, Annie, Maggie, Steph, Lauren, Meri, Chantelle and Vivianne, as well as those who come together to put the food hampers together during the day and cook the absolutely delicious meals. We also have Orange Sky come along, who help do laundry, and that is really great for the people who come along as well. Everyone there is always looking for new volunteers if anyone is interested.

I also just want to acknowledge that Easter is the most significant time in the Christian calendar – a time to reflect on sacrifice and new beginnings, to come together and celebrate the shared values of kindness, giving and unconditional love. I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy Easter on Sunday, filled with love, joy and togetherness. Buona Pasqua to the Italian community and a very happy Easter to our Orthodox community next Sunday. I hope everyone has a safe and happy long weekend.