STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Dr HAINES (Indi) (13:30): This week is National Science Week, and I want to celebrate the discovery, fun and wonder happening right across my electorate of Indi. Schools across Indi are marking the week with science based trivia, experiments and hands-on learning. In Kinglake, students will be spellbound by the magic of science as they mix potions and cast spells through Harry Potter themed experiments.

Science lovers of all ages are joining in too. Professor Chris Sobey has shared insights from his career in research and innovation in improving outcomes for stroke patients in Wodonga. Benalla Library has been hosting science cinema sessions.

In Mount Beauty, polar explorer and astronaut Eric Philips OAM will share extraordinary insights from a lifetime of exploration and discovery. Science happens every day in Indi—in schools, hospitals and manufacturing plants; on farms and construction sites; and through the many citizen-science projects that help care for our local wildlife and landscapes. It's reflected in the knowledge and skills of First Nations people, who are Australia's first scientists and have cared for, understood and learned from this land for thousands of years.

Indi is filled with young scientists, lifelong learners and innovators. That curiosity and wonder deserve to be supported and celebrated. Happy National Science Week, Indi!