Thursday, 5 March 2026

 Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:58): It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Gina Poulos, a remarkable woman whose life was defined by service, compassion and selfless dedication to the community that she loved. Gina passed away peacefully on Sunday 21 February surrounded by her loving family. Her legacy, as a beacon of hope and compassion, will continue to empower us as we remember her unwavering commitment to supporting those in need. For two decades Theodora House in Seaford, the charity organisation she founded, has been a lifeline for individuals and families facing financial hardship, delivering around 400 food hampers and over a thousand precooked meals each week and operating an extraordinary emergency relief food pantry.

Gina’s tireless efforts ignited positive change, and her unrelenting passion and perseverance inspired countless others to join her in making a meaningful difference. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity recently to join over a hundred people to share in the joy of celebrating her life with her family, friends and colleagues, and I am deeply grateful for the time I had with her. Gina’s remarkable life serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when driven by kindness, generosity and compassion. I, like many, will miss her, but I know that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to strive for positive change.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions Gina received the Fair Go medal at the Pride of Australia Awards in 2014, the $1000 prize at the Frankston City Council volunteer awards in 2020 and the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry excellence award for community service in 2021. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her loving husband Peter, her children Georgegina, Helen, Anna and Alex, all the family and the many long-term volunteers from Theodora’s as we honour Gina’s extraordinary life and the profound impact she had on our community. Vale, Gina. Your remarkable legacy will continue to inspire us to always be there to support those in need and to strive for a brighter future.