Helen Haines (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Ella Iaria is a 19-year-old country woman from Myrtleford in my electorate of Indi. She was one of this year's winner of the ABC's Heywire program. Heywire amplifies the voice of a new generation, and that's exactly what Ella did. She wrote eloquently of growing up in a small country town with pretty clear ideas of what boys do and what girls do. These gendered stereotypes did not sit well with Ella. She had a clear plan and her own passion. She donned her boots and signed up to do a certificate in building and construction. She followed her own dream and brought others along with her as she challenged preconceived beliefs. Ella's dad is a master cabinetmaker. Initially he wasn't keen for his young daughter to take on this role, but he was willing to give it a go, and now he realises she can do anything she puts her mind to. He is as proud as punch of Ella.

I recently met with Ella to congratulate her on her achievement in this program, which has given voice to young rural Australians for over 20 years. Ella's inspiring contribution to ABC Heywire told a great story of bucking the trend and has opened the door in her community for others to do the same. In Ella's words, 'Girls can do it, no matter what.'