Thursday, 9 February 2023

 Michael GALEA (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:43): I rise to inform the house of the recently completed restoration of the Mentone Nylex clock in my electorate. Last month I had the pleasure of joining with the local community as the Nylex clock was relit. The refurbished clock was switched on for the first time in 16 years. While perhaps not as famous or conspicuous as the clock in Richmond, for many locals it brings up powerful emotions and memories of the heyday of the factory. The Nylex clock in Mentone is a symbol of the manufacturing roots of Melbourne. I am delighted to see this local icon restored, which was achieved with funding from Kingston City Council and Bunnings Mentone. In celebrating the completed works, I would like to particularly congratulate the efforts of Dorothy Booth of the Mordialloc and District Historical Society. She has been a driving force in preserving this piece of local history for the community. Finally, I would like to thank Cr Steve Staikos and mayor Cr Hadi Saab for their advocacy for and support of the restoration. As one of my first community events since being elected, I was glad to see this significant local icon restored to its full glory.