Thursday, 16 October 2025

 Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (10:02): I wish to thank and celebrate Mi Smart Life and Change Life Victoria for their MindCafe projects coming up in Cardinia. The team has now hand-delivered flyers and surveys to streets adjoining 12 local parks. The response has been encouraging, with residents engaging on mental health, belonging and local problem-solving. MindCafe does what good community work should do: listens first to identify needs, co-designs solutions and then connects people to counsellors, social workers, budget advisers and local services. I want to thank Patrick and the volunteers who have walked the streets, being part of heartbreaking conversations and inviting people into community again. I also want to thank Change Life Victoria for their professional support that means people can be met where they are. This is a fantastic low-cost intervention that is building connections, reducing isolation and giving families the tools they need to thrive. I look forward to my next catch-up with the MindCafe and to seeing how many local stories are being heard and how they are being turned into local solutions within Cardinia.