Thursday, 30 July 2026

 Will FOWLES (Ringwood) (10:00): I rise today to acknowledge two organisations that reflect the very best of the Ringwood community. At this time of the year the days are short and the nights are cold, and for most of us home is a place of warmth and comfort. But for those experiencing homelessness, winter can be a frightening and lonely time. That is why Maroondah Winter Shelter is such an important part of my local community. Throughout winter, the winter shelter program provides homeless men with a warm bed, a hot shower, a nourishing meal and, above all, a safe place to sleep. I want to pay tribute to the incredible volunteers who make it all happen: the people who cook dinners and breakfasts, make beds, wash linen, drive guests and give up their evenings and even stay all night to ensure that someone else is cared for. Their generosity and compassion make a real difference.

I also recently had the pleasure of attending the Stroke a Chord concert. Stroke a Chord bring together stroke survivors and people living with aphasia through music, fostering confidence, friendship and connection. It is remarkable hearing people living with aphasia and other speech difficulties sing together with such confidence and joy.

To everyone involved with Maroondah Winter Shelter and Stroke a Chord, thank you. Thank you for your extraordinary contributions. Thank you for your kindness, your generosity and your dedication. Those things are what makes Ringwood a better place.