TRANSCRIPT:
With this week being National Volunteer Week, I thought it was fitting to use my time to speak about some of the fantastic volunteer work happening in the Euroa electorate. I recently met with local legend Peter Cunningham and the Royal Flying Doctor Service patient transport team in Heathcote to hear about the work they are doing. This group of incredible volunteers offer life-saving support, with over 25,000 patients transported since 2018 in a community that is without reliable public transport, ensuring that the most vulnerable people are able to get access to essential healthcare services. While in Heathcote I also met with the CFA brigade and the SES unit, who are continuing their push for a new co-located site. Facilities for these essential volunteers should match the courage and bravery they consistently show in the face of danger.
I also want to speak about the opening of the Gargarro Botanic Garden, a truly amazing story. When the Heinz tomato factory closed in Girgarre there were concerns for the future of the town. While there was a financial offering for community wellbeing, this was declined in favour of some land and irrigation rights provided by Heinz. Thanks to an outstanding effort from a team of volunteers and community members, this garden celebrated its official opening and has already provided such a boost to the town. Gargarro brings together the passion and skills of the local community to create something lasting, meaningful, full of heart and for the benefit of all those who visit, volunteer or work there into the future. It is a great credit to the many who have played a role in making this vision a reality.