Western Victoria Region
Bev McARTHUR (Western Victoria) (12:59): (648) My question for the Minister for Disability concerns the Geelong Food Relief Centre. I visited the centre last month and saw the incredible work done by CEO Andrew Schauble and his expert, dedicated, caring team. With four full-time staff, they marshal a team of up to 180 volunteers and deliver a huge service across the region via mini-mart sites but also relationships with smaller charitable organisations. They organise bulk ingredient delivery and cook or arrange bulk meal production themselves as well as direct distribution to those in need. Nothing is wasted. It is extraordinary and incredible value for money. Stepping inside, it is obvious how effective and enthusiastic the team is. Their personal relationships allow tailored care and advice for individuals and cooperation with other voluntary organisations. Minister, the value return for the small funding they receive is absolutely astonishing. To assist them, will you provide multiyear budget settlements, not single-year grants which make planning and management difficult?
Sitting suspended 1:00 pm until 2:03 pm.