Wednesday, 29 October 2025

 Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (18:43): (2055) My adjournment matter tonight is for the Minister for Community Sport in the other place. Last Sunday I had the opportunity to represent the minister at the Deadly Little Dribblers clinic at Narrandjeri Stadium in Thornbury, led by the Koorie Academy and supported through a $100,000 investment from the Allan Labor government’s 2024–25 budget. It was one of five junior basketball development camps held across Victoria. The Deadly Little Dribblers program gives First Nations children the opportunity to try basketball, connect with culture and build pathways in sport. Clinics have been held right across Victoria, from Ballarat to Mildura to Dimboola, Melton and the inner north in Thornbury, all designed to strengthen community connection and build inclusive spaces for young First Nations people. It is a brilliant reminder of why local community sport matters. A special shout-out to Ricky Baldwin, the founder and CEO of Koorie Academy, along with all the dedicated family, staff and volunteers who put in a massive effort to make this a success. I was thrilled to help hand out prizes to what is undoubtedly the next generation of basketball superstars and see firsthand how sport and culture can come together to support our youth. Despite the cold and rainy, rainy, rainy weather outside, the energy and teamwork inside were unmatched. Special mention must go to Riley and all the other Deadly Little Dribblers, who showed their impressive skills on the court. The action I seek from the minister is to provide information on how other initiatives that the Allan Labor government is delivering support Aboriginal participation and excellence in sport across Victoria.