Melissa McIntosh (Lindsay, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak about something very positive, warm and wonderful in my community of Lindsay. The Nepean River gets used for many causes. We walk the six to seven kays around the river. The other week it was for the Get Down for Down Syndrome Walk, and it was beautiful. There was so much love and family atmosphere and cuddles. It was a fantastic splash of colour—blue and yellow socks. I tried to wear socks with my high heels. I didn't get very far, but it's a really great campaign. It's all about fun, but it's also about inclusion and ensuring that people across my community do feel included. The colourful socks have a simple, meaningful definition that socks come in all shapes and sizes and designs just like people, and each one is different. That's exactly what makes them special. It's a wonderful reminder that our differences are often something to celebrate and not to hide. It's what makes communities richer, kinder and more vibrant. There was a lot of kindness on the day around the Nepean River, and it was particularly special because it was also in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, understanding the importance of inclusion and opportunity and carrying on that very important message and ensuring that people right across our community, especially in times like this, feel loved and needed.

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