CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Mr ABDO (Calwell) (09:38): I rise in this House to mark the silver jubilee of the priestly ordination of Monsignor Paul Mingana. Celebrating 25 years of priestly ministry, Monsignor Paul has devoted his life to the service of his church and community through dedication, compassion and sacrifice. Following the first Gulf War, he sought refuge in Turkiye before emigrating to Australia in 1992.
His journey resonates with me, as my family and I share a similar story in the same period and context. When I asked Monsignor Paul what this milestone meant to him, his response was telling. It wasn't about him but about others.
He reflected on 25 years defined by sacrifice, service and dedication. He has stood beside people in moments of both joy and sorrow and offered comfort through both happiness and hardship. If you sit with Monsignor Paul, you cannot help but listen.
He speaks in a way that reflects his priestly vocation. Monsignor Paul, thank you for your years of service, your generosity and the care and support you have given to so many. On behalf of our community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and thank you for your service, generosity of spirit and example you set for your faith and humanity.
May the years ahead bring you the same hope, comfort and joy you have so generously given to others. Mabrouk, Abouna. Last week I had the pleasure of attending a breast cancer awareness fundraiser organised in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation, hosted by Hanson Medical Centre in Craigieburn in my electorate.
Thank you to Doctor Vajna Rafeek and her team of doctors, allied health professionals and staff for bringing the community together for this important cause and to Kaur and Suzanne for sharing their personal journeys. Awareness, education, screening and early detection are vital to improving patient outcomes for those impacted by breast cancer. In thanking Doctor Vajna Rafeek, I want to congratulate her on being awarded not one but two outstanding awards by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners: Victorian GP of the Year, and the clinic Dr Rafeek established, Hanson Medical Centre, was named Practice of the Year.
With more than 30 years of service, Dr Rafeek continues to champion accessible, patient centred care, community health and the training of future GPs. Hanson Medical Centre delivers comprehensive medical care while championing community health promotion, young people's access to health care through the Doctors in Secondary Schools program and the training of future GPS through support for AGPT registrars and international medical graduates.
Thank you, Doctor, for your outstanding contributions to our community and congratulations on these well-deserved achievements.