Thursday, 8 February 2024

Australia Day awards

Melissa HORNE (Williamstown – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Ports and Freight, Minister for Roads and Road Safety) (09:50): On Australia Day I was delighted to learn that not one, not two, but six incredible women from my electorate were recognised in this year’s Australia Day honours list.

Firstly, we have Carol Willis, who for 30 years has worked to provide thousands of residents with assistance such as crisis counselling, food parcels and financial support. Carol has been a tireless volunteer across many committees.

We have had a former mayor and councillor of Hobsons Bay, Angela Altair, recognised for her services to the community via journalism and local government. Angela worked as a journalist covering local government affairs and then moved to the other side of the desk in 1999 when she was elected to council.

Dr Christine Longman was another one – recognised for her long and successful career serving the Williamstown community as a local GP as well as her pro bono work as an on-call doctor.

Longstanding committee member for the Williamstown Literary Festival, Lis Grove, received an honour for her services to the community.

Wilma Robarts was recognised for her services to the Williamstown community through the Holy Trinity church, volunteer tutoring and Heartsong Choir. This was alongside her work as a primary school teacher for 37 years.

And finally, community radio volunteer for more than 30 years Fiona Bamford-Bracher was recognised for her outstanding work as trainer, program host and producer at Triple R.