CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms BYRNES (Cunningham) (10:15): Across Cunningham we have had so many reasons to celebrate lately, with cultural events, community gatherings and significant milestones reached right across the Illawarra. Last week we celebrated India's 80th Independence Day with fantastic food, dancing, singing and entertainment for all ages. I say a very big thank you to Dr Sharad Tamhane, Usha Fernandez and the Indian Australian Cultural Association of Illawarra for organising such a vibrant day.
The Port Kembla Football Club has just turned 60. It was a privilege to celebrate the dedication of countless Zebras players, coaches, volunteers and supporters over the last 60 years with President Sean Till and his entire team. The George Cross Falcons Community Centre recently celebrated its 75th anniversary.
Joining the amazing Louis Parnis and 400 of our Australian Maltese friends was a great opportunity to recognise this incredible milestone and the generations who have helped to build its legacy. In July, the Illawarra Women's Health Centre celebrated 40 years of supporting local women. Congratulations to CEO Jess Davidson and to all of her team on this fabulous achievement.
During this year's NAIDOC Week, we celebrated '50 Years of Deadly' at Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre's Family Fun Day alongside our amazing Cath Daly and her incredible team. It was wonderful to see such a strong turnout from local families, community members and service providers to show support and celebrate with our First Nations community. UOW Motorsport celebrated 25 years of engineering, design and innovation leading to real-world success and a lasting impact on the program's graduates.
A big congratulations to team principal Connor Harvey, his team and all of the alumni on this great accomplishment. Another yearly staple on my calendar is the BlueScope WIN Wollongong Eisteddfod, now marking 132 years. This was another fantastic evening showcasing the talent and dedication of so many young performers.
A big congratulations to Tony and the team as well as to all of the amazing performers, teachers, parents and volunteers on another outstanding showcase evening. We love to celebrate milestones big and small in the Illawarra, and it was really wonderful to join the Berkeley Community Centre for its fourth Mini Service Expo last week. The expo brought together local organisations, services and community groups under one roof to support those doing it tough.
I say a big thank you to Joel from Heartwork Mental Health and NDIS Services, Shaz and KP from Need a Feed and our amazing Maria from Berkeley Community Centre for bringing everyone together. We are so fortunate to have so many passionate people making such a positive difference across our community.