Thursday, 8 February 2024

Members statements

Michelle Robinson

Ben CARROLL (Niddrie – Minister for Education, Minister for Medical Research) (09:38): I rise today to congratulate Michelle Robinson on her retirement last week from my local Kmart, at Airport West, after 34 years of service. Thanks to a sneaky call from Michelle’s husband Norm to my office, I had the great privilege of making my way into the Kmart breakout room on Michelle’s last day for the celebration. I have never seen so many people squeezed into one room – so many longstanding, loyal servants of Kmart Airport West.

In a twist of history, in 1989 I started my first job at Kmart Airport West the same week that Michelle started. I stayed for eight years, right through my high school and university years, and Michelle stayed for 34 years. It is often said that the people you meet are more important than the pay cheque you receive, and that sentiment goes well and truly for Michelle. You could see how well she has been loved over so many years and how many young people she has helped start their working lives.

Michelle has been a longstanding, loyal servant of Kmart Airport West. I wish her very well for the future. Her skills in servicing the local community, teaching young people that the customer is always right, effective communication and punctuality are lifelong skills that everyone should have. Michelle also did a lot with the Kmart Wishing Tree that I had the great privilege every Christmas of being able to light up, helping to ensure that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds get that special something at Christmas time, a present under the tree.

The SPEAKER: Before I call the member for Croydon, I acknowledge in the gallery a former member for Lara and minister the Honourable John Eren.