TRANSCRIPT:
I had the privilege of meeting the next generation of leaders across our region while visiting local schools recently, and I can confidently say our future is in good hands. A huge thankyou to Euroa Secondary College, Seymour College, St Patrick’s Primary, Broadford Primary, St Joseph’s and Nagambie Primary School for welcoming me into your leadership ceremonies and classrooms. It was an honour to speak with students about the many forms leadership can take and the incredible impact young leaders can have on their schools and communities. To this year’s school leaders: congratulations. By stepping up to guide your peers, you are shaping not just your school but the future of our region.
I also want to give a special mention to Dylan Townsend, who I had the pleasure of meeting during drop-in sessions at my Benalla office. Despite his young age, Dylan’s amazing understanding of Parliament and its history and the challenges facing our region is so inspiring. His political skills are so good, Dylan and I are hosting a civics class at EdSpace in Benalla.
Unfortunately not all young people in our community have access to the support they need. The closure of the Benalla community services hub has left a devastating gap, cutting off vital health, housing and family violence support services. In response I hosted a round table with local organisations and community leaders to find a new home for these services, because no-one in our town should be left without the help they need.
Finally, I want to say thank you to our incredible firefighters and volunteers, who work tirelessly to control fires across the Strathbogie and Boho areas. We are so grateful for everything you do.