Wednesday, 12 November 2025

 Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (13:30): I rise today to speak about a fantastic day that was had by all on Sunday at the Maroondah Festival. This is one of Victoria’s largest community festivals, with around 25,000 people attending each year, and it was wonderful to meet so many locals and talk about the great work that the Allan Labor government is doing in the North-Eastern Metropolitan Region. This includes upgrades of key intersections like the Five Ways in Warrandyte and the Maroondah Highway–Yarra Road intersection in Croydon; the community pharmacy pilot, making health care more accessible; and of course the ever-popular power saving bonus, which helps concession card holders with cost-of-living pressures. I was proud to share how we are supporting our local community, and I had many great chats with locals. I had the chance to speak with local community organisations, including Each, who run the Allan Labor government’s Smile Squad program at many schools in Maroondah, and the Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival committee, who both do incredible work in the community all year round. Events like this remind us of the strength and vibrancy of our community. The Maroondah Festival is always a highlight for me each year, and I want to thank the volunteers and organisers who helped set up and pack down and everyone who stopped by for a chat. Your passion and commitment make these events possible, and I look forward to seeing you all again next year.