Thursday, 4 June 2026

 Colin BROOKS (Bundoora – Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for Skills and TAFE) (10:07): It was a pleasure recently to attend the 2026 Jagajaga Community Volunteer Awards, hosted by my hardworking federal colleague the member for Jagajaga Kate Thwaites MP along with the member for Eltham and the member for Ivanhoe. It was such an honour to recognise so many hardworking local people who make our community such a terrific place to be. People like Nancy Gheno, who founded Inspirational Quilts over 20 years ago, turning a kind gesture for a sick child into thousands of donated quilts. Also recognised were John and Katherine Gibson, who were foundation members of the Greensborough Historical Society and foster carers for Guide Dogs Victoria.

I would also like to recognise Stephen Kelly for his contributions to the Darebin Creek Sweepers and Bundoora Rotary Club; Nola MacDonald for her incredible commitment to the Living Faith Church and their partnership with Prison Fellowship Australia; Ana Monge Simmons for spending the past 12 years volunteering with Starting Over Dog Rescue, preventing dogs from being returned to shelters; Jeanette Nash for being a long-term dedicated volunteer at the Greensborough Historical Society; Jackie Arbuckle for her significant commitment to Rosanna Primary School; and Bread Hub Victoria volunteers Leora Creak and Nabil Salem. Congratulations to all the recipients who received an award, and a huge thankyou to every volunteer who contributes so much to our community. It would not be the place it is without all of your hard work and dedication.