Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has raised flood recovery and support in her first parliamentary speaking opportunity since delivery her maiden speech.
Speaking from Parliament, Ms Cleeland thanked the Seymour Football Netball Club for their work coordinating volunteers in the aftermath of the October floods.
“I rise today, on behalf of the Seymour community, to record our heartfelt gratitude to the Seymour Football Netball Club for their selfless work spearheading the town’s immediate flood clean-up,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This was led by President Gerard O’Sullivan, and his family Sandra and Lyndel, who epitomise community spirit.
“Our community is indebted to them for their tireless work coordinating hundreds of volunteers, who cared for locals while floodwaters were still receding.
“Many businesses and individuals deserve a wholehearted ‘thank you’ for volunteering day after day to get the community back on its feet.”
Ms Cleeland proceeded to list and acknowledge a range of local businesses and organisations before raising concerns around the management of flood recovery grants.
“Frustratingly, many businesses have struggled to access emergency support,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I’ve spoken to so many businesses across the Seymour, Murchison and Heathcote regions that were at risk of closure as flood payments stalled.”
Ms Cleeland contacted the Minister for Small Business on January 12 seeking support to expedite grants for struggling local businesses.
“Well over a month ago I contacted the Minister for Small Business requesting the most vulnerable grant applications be expedited and I stand here still without a response,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This lack of interest from the Minister has been devastating for some businesses.”
