CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms JORDAN-BAIRD (Gorton) (10:27): I give hearty congratulations to Peter Burquest and Bobby Matthewman, members of the Caroline Springs RSL sub-branch, who were recently awarded lifetime membership of RSL Victoria. Both Vietnam veterans, they've shown unwavering commitment to our veteran community, dedicating their time and energy to supporting ex-service personnel.
Peter and Bobby are ensuring the legacy of the RSL continues to thrive through the younger generation, and it was an absolute honour to celebrate with them and members and supporters of the RSL recently. The story of the Caroline Springs sub-branch is showcased in the amazing documentary Those Who Serve, which is now available on SBS On Demand. Go check it out.
Congratulations to all finalists and winners of the 2025 Melton business excellence awards. I want to give a massive shout-out to six winners local to Gorton, Witchmount Estate Weddings and Events, Jungle Lab, Australian Integrated Care Services, ANZLENS, and Desir Wine and Cocktail Lounge, and to our finalists, Springs Dental Group, We Love Aintree, Enviro Pest Control, Pep & Gusto, Stix dessert bar, Pizza Speciale, All In One Accounting Solutions, and HK Career & Life Coaching.
Small businesses are the backbone of our community. They create jobs, support families and drive innovation and growth, and they're a hallmark of our diverse and wonderful community in Melbourne's western suburbs. At CRC Sydenham, I attended the years 11 and 12 student awards.
What an incredible assembly filled with outstanding musical performances that really showcased our students' talent and creativity! It was truly a pleasure to stay for morning tea and get to talk directly with awardees and hear their hopes and dreams of what they want to do after school. Thank you so much to Principal Brendan Watson OAM for having me.
At Parkwood Green Primary School I met with year 5 students gearing up to deliver their school leadership speeches. We practised power poses and other ways to stay calm before public speaking. A huge shout-out to Emma Cornwill and all the dedicated teachers at Parkwood Green.
Springside Primary School's inspiring cultural mural of student handprints in their gym, thriving kitchen garden and reconciliation garden is a reflection of how schools are nurturing both creativity and a strong sense of community. I could have spent a full day there, hearing from staff and students about how this dynamic school in my local community is thriving.
A massive thank you to Principal Gabi Zorko and all of the incredible staff at Springside Primary School for all that you do. At Yarrabing Secondary College in Aintree, Principal John Mitsinikos discussed with me the exciting stage 2 development of more classrooms, expanded recreation programs and growth in their Japanese language program. It's clear the school is committed to giving students every opportunity they need.
To all year 12 students across Gorton: I wish you the very best as you approach and prepare for your final assessment and for the next big chapter of your life. We're all cheering for you!