Tuesday, 22 September 2026

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria) (15:45): I rise to pay tribute to Joan Louise Creati, a dearly loved and deeply respected member of the Geelong community. Joan was a woman of remarkable intellect, curiosity and compassion. A teacher, librarian and distinguished scholar, she believed strongly in the power of knowledge and education to change lives. She generously shared that knowledge as an engaging storyteller and inspiring mentor who encouraged others to think more deeply about the world around them. Some years ago Joan wrote about her travels through Iran for my community newsletter, concluding: ‘I came home with a clear knowledge that three weeks in Iran raised more questions than I had when I entered.’ That was Joan – always learning, always questioning and always open to a new perspective. Joan was also a tireless advocate for fairness and social justice, generously sharing her time and wisdom through decades of community involvement in the labour movement. Above all, Joan loved her family and spoke of them with enormous pride and affection, describing them as their family glue, speaking volumes about the place she held in their lives. I was proud to call Joan a friend and held her in the deepest respect and affection. Her sudden passing is a tragic loss for her family and friends and a profound loss for our community, and I extend my deepest condolences to Joan’s much-loved family. Her legacy will live on through the many people she taught, mentored, inspired and supported. Vale, Joan Creati.