Tuesday, 3 February 2026

 Michael GALEA (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (20:22): I rise today to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of many people in the local south-east community, many individuals who were in fact recognised for their community service last week, in particular in the Australia Day ceremonies in Frankston and in Greater Dandenong. I wish to acknowledge Peter Talbot, who runs the 3199 Frankston beach patrol, who was recognised for his longstanding service to the Frankston community and his efforts in supporting local groups. I also recognise the Living Treasure awards in Greater Dandenong, which were given to winners Christine Keys and Trish Marson. Christine’s work preserving and sharing our local history has ensured that the shared heritage is valued and remembered, while Trish’s decades of service at the Noble Park junior football club have created a welcoming environment for generations of families. I would also like to acknowledge Young Leader of the Year joint recipients Mohammed Nawed and Atifa Ahmed, whose leadership and advocacy demonstrate the very exciting promise of the next generation in the south-east. Amongst the day as well it was also wonderful to take part in a number of citizenship ceremonies in Frankston, Greater Dandenong and Knox and to celebrate the many hundreds in the south-east and many tens of thousands, I am sure, across the nation who have chosen to call our great country home.