CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Mr BURNELL (Spence) (16:49): Recently, it was my pleasure to attend the World's Greatest Shave at the Willaston Football Club, where the north came together in remarkable numbers to support Australians impacted by blood cancer. Local sporting clubs are often known for what happens on the field, but their true value is measured by what they do off it. The Willaston Football Club demonstrated exactly that, turning a community fundraiser into an opportunity to support families and encourage important conversations about health and wellbeing.

I was proud to be joined by my good mates James Agness, the member for Light, and Nathan Shanks, the mayor of Gawler—who joins us in the chamber today—as we stood alongside more than 170 people who packed the clubroom in support of this worthy cause. The generosity shown by those in attendance was nothing short of extraordinary. Organisers initially set a fundraising target of $3,000, hoping to make a meaningful contribution to the work of the Leukaemia Foundation.

By the end of the event, the goal had been completely eclipsed, with more than $14,000 donated by community members—and still rising—determined to make a difference in the lives of others. Behind every dollar raised was a story, and some of the most powerful moments of the day came from those brave enough to share their own experiences. Karen McColl spoke openly about her leukaemia diagnosis, offering a deeply personal insight into the challenges faced by so many Australians living with blood cancer.

Adam Wardle, a father of two junior players at the club, shared the story of losing his father recently, reminding everyone in the room that cancer leaves few families untouched. Their courage, honesty and willingness to speak from the heart helped transform the event from a fundraiser into something far more meaningful. Importantly, this event formed part of the Willaston Football Club's wellbeing program, an initiative designed to equip people with the knowledge, confidence and support networks they need when confronted with health challenges.

That commitment to building resilience and encouraging people to seek help when they need it is making a real difference throughout the community. The World's Greatest Shave is about far more than cutting or dyeing hair. Funds raised help provide physical, emotional and financial support to Australians living with blood cancer while also helping to fund vital research that brings us closer to better treatments and outcomes.

Every person who attended, donated or shared their story played a role in supporting this mission. I congratulate everyone involved in making the day such an outstanding success and thank the Willaston Football Club for continuing to demonstrate what community leadership looks like. For anyone who would like to contribute, donations can still be made by visiting worldsgreatestshave.com and searching on there for the Willaston Football Club.

Congratulations on what was a fantastic event and, in the true Donnybrook spirit, always fighting for everybody within our community. Thank you for everything you do. Go the Donnybrooks!