House debates

Monday, 9 November 2020

Statements by Members

Moore Electorate: Westfield Local Heroes

4:14 pm

Photo of Ian GoodenoughIan Goodenough (Moore, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise to recognise the three Westfield Local Heroes for 2020, selected at our local shopping centre Whitford City—Darra Mills, Azelene Williams and Lorraine Lekias—for their outstanding contributions to our community. These inspiring local leaders were nominated by and voted for by the community. Each of their affiliated organisations will be awarded a $10,000 grant to help support and further their important work.

Dara Mills, a member of the Mullaloo Surf Life Saving Club, campaigned for four years to have a universal beach access mat installed at Mullaloo Beach to enable people with disabilities and limited mobility gain access to the beach. The federal government made this project a reality with a grant under the Stronger Communities Program, and Dara will use her new grant to upgrade the beach access wheelchair for the surf club.

Azelene Williams is an author and qualified counsellor who actively advocates against bullying in schools, with her daughter Sian Williams, and domestic violence through her counselling practice, community work and books. Lorraine Lekias founded the charity Fostering Help to provide material items to foster children and advice to their carers. Lorraine has 20 years of experience as a foster mum and has five foster children. We are very fortunate to have such dedicated and caring volunteers in the Moore community.