Thursday, 24 September 2026

 Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (19:04): (1866) Deputy Speaker, before I commence my adjournment matter, I just want to say thank you for all the work you have done – I thanked the Speaker before – throughout the past four years. It is not easy being in that chair. I only do it once a week, and you do it more times than I do. Thank you very much for the work you have done.

My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Carers and Volunteers, and the action I seek is for the minister to visit my electorate of Monbulk and meet some of the extraordinary and dedicated volunteers who give so much of their time and energy to support our beautiful community across the hills and foothills of the Dandenong Ranges. On 11 September I was honoured to host the Monbulk District Volunteer Awards here at Parliament House, recognising 16 outstanding individuals whose dedication has made a real difference to the lives of others. While their contributions vary, they all share a commitment to helping others and strengthening our Monbulk community and beyond. Their efforts often occur behind the scenes and without expectation of recognition, yet they have had an immeasurable impact on the wellbeing and resilience of the people of our community. These recipients represent the very best, contributing countless hours to emergency services, sporting clubs, RSLs, community groups, charitable causes and Scouts.

The 16 Monbulk District Volunteer Awards recipients are: James Barrigan, Ferntree Gully Tennis Club; Daryl Bristowe, SES and RSL; Peta Candy, Gembrook Cricket Club; Geoff Eady, Ferntree Gully Arts Society Inc; Melinda Head, 1st Monbulk Scout Group; Glenn Hickingbotham, Monbulk CFA; Chris Job, Kallista Village Inc; Josh Koster, Ferntree Gully CFA; Peter Maloney, Hills Arts Alliance; Chris May, Clematis CFA; Garry McGough, Gembrook RSL; Rom Miles, 1st Kallista Scout Group; Glen Molden, Menzies Creek CFA; Jenni Nash, Open Door Community Care Inc; Adam Preece, Mountain Tigers Basketball Club; and Philip Spencer of Macclesfield CFA. I would like to note that many of them also volunteer for other organisations. That is the kind of people they are. This year’s recipients are a powerful reminder that volunteers are at the heart of our community, and I sincerely thank each and every one of them for the extraordinary contributions they have made to the people of Monbulk district. I look forward to the minister’s response.