Thursday, 16 October 2025

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (09:46): I rise today to congratulate Don McKinnon on being awarded life membership of the Australian Poll Dorset Association, a fitting honour for more than six decades of service to the sheep industry. From founding the Derby Downs stud in 1960 to pioneering Poll Dorset genetics, Don helped shape the industry. He has been part of the Bendigo Show Society since 1967, and his vision and leadership were instrumental in relocating the Australian Sheep and Wool Show from Melbourne to Bendigo in 1999, a move that revitalised the event and transformed it into the largest sheep show in the world. Don’s legacy is one of innovation, dedication and community service, and I congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.