Tuesday, 17 March 2020

COVID-19

Ms CRUGNALE (Bass) (14:13): I stand to speak to my electorate and our broader community. I know people are scared and anxious about the impact COVID-19 may have on them and those they love. Words like ‘fear’, ‘panic’, ‘stockpiling’ and ‘fighting’ overflow our media sources daily, but we cannot let this define us. This is not who we are. The recent bushfires showed us who we are as individuals, neighbours and communities: we are caring, we are compassionate, we are cooperative. It is new territory. Please listen to our chief health officer and the health departments and put into practice their very sensible recommendations. We do need to cancel gatherings and restrict some practices. We need to think about why we do things and act appropriately.

Equally importantly, we need to thank all our health workers and support staff who are working around the clock to protect us. We must care for those who care for us. We also need to acknowledge and thank all those who worked so tirelessly for the many events that either have been or will be cancelled or postponed. The Pakenham Show, the Yakkerboo Festival, the Phillip Island Nature Parks Community Day, Keeping Kids on Track and markets are just some recent examples.

And we must not forget that we live in a country with clean air, clean water and where our primary produce is globally envied. We have plenty for all; there is no need to panic. It is a difficult time, it is disruptive, but together we can adjust. We are at our best when we walk together, so I stand to remind us all— (Time expired)