Thursday, 18 June 2026

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria) (10:09): I rise to acknowledge two outstanding western Victorian businesses that continue to showcase the very best of regional tourism and hospitality. The Victoria Hotel in Dimboola was recently named Victoria’s best bush pub at the Australian Hotels Association’s 2026 awards for excellence. The Vic has become one of the favourite places to stop at when travelling through western Victoria, and it certainly is the case for my family. Stoph and Meron Pilmore, along with their team, have created a welcoming destination full of character and community spirit. I encourage all members to drop in for a beer or a meal or to stay the night when they are next in Dimboola. It is a little bit different, it is a little bit quirky, but it is also great fun. I also want to congratulate Julian and Dianne Benson of Apostle Whey Cheese at Cooriemungle on receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Victorian Small Business Awards. Julian and Dianne have created an amazing business. From cheese and milk to gelato and gin, Apostle Whey showcases the very best of regional Victoria while supporting local producers, local jobs and tourism along the way. I can confidently advise all members here that no good cheese platter is complete without a bit of their cheese on it. Congratulations again, and thank you for all of your hard work and shining a fantastic light on the very best of what is offered in western Victoria.