CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms JORDAN-BAIRD (Gorton) (12:14): After three years as club president, Martin Bielski of the Albanvale Football Netball Club has made the difficult decision to step down from the role. I want to thank this passionate local leader who has given so much to our community through grassroots sport, as always putting the best interests of the club first. During a significant period of growth and transition, Martin's leadership, dedication and tireless volunteer service have helped strengthen the club both on and off the field.
A division having been called in the House of Representatives— Sitting suspended from 12:14 to 12:51 Ms JORDAN-BAIRD: The Albanvale Cobras are more than just a football and netball club. A division having been called in the House of Representatives— Sitting suspended from 12:51 to 13:18 Ms JORDAN-BAIRD: They provide a place where friendships are formed, young people grow in confidence and the community comes together.
They're a fantastic club, and I know there's more work to be done in terms of infrastructure. Martin's contribution has helped ensure their important legacy continues for future generations. I congratulate Dean Formosa on stepping into the role of interim president, alongside Vice-President Karl O'Donnell, and wish the leadership group every success for the season ahead.
Go, Cobras! Getting up in front of others and speaking from the heart is no easy feat, as all of us in this place know. Those who competed in heat 7 of the Wynspeak youth public-speaking competition at Lakeview Senior College know this as well.
This annual competition is run by local Rotary Clubs and entered into by more than 40 schools from across Melbourne's western suburbs. From speaking about the dangers of perfectionism and AI data centres to speaking about the importance of youth activism, these students were truly inspiring. I give a shout-out to one of our 2025 Gorton Young Leader awardees, Joywin Benmar Rees from Yarrabing Secondary College, who gave an impassioned speech about the importance of financial literacy for young people, showing wisdom beyond his years.
Congratulations to all the participants from our local Gorton schools Yarrabing Secondary College, Overnewton Anglican Community College, Lakeview Senior College, Catholic Regional College and Bacchus Marsh Grammar Woodlea Campus. These young people from Melbourne's west are the real deal, and the future is in good hands with them. Thank you to the volunteers of the Caroline Springs RSL Sub-Branch for their morning tea celebrating National Volunteer Week.
From supporting the ANZAC Appeal and organising the Anzac Day commemorative services and youth vigil to school engagement, welfare outreach and community support, the contribution of the RSL volunteers helps keep the spirit of service and remembrance alive in Caroline Springs. This local RSL has a wonderful partnership with the Caroline Springs Scout Group based on friendship, mentorship and shared service to the community.
It reflects the very best of who we are in Melbourne's west—people coming together to support one another and make our community stronger. To Peter Burquest, Dave Saunders, Wendy Mason, the veterans of the Caroline Springs RSL and all volunteers in our community: thank you for everything you do.