Tom French (Moore, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to recognise two extraordinary local legends from my electorate of Moore—people whose service shows, in very real terms, what community leadership looks like. First, I want to pay tribute to Joy Coleman, whose remarkable legacy lives through the Spiers Centre in Heathridge. Back in 1980, when Heathridge was still new, still isolated and still finding its identity, Joy opened the doors of her own home to around 40 local women. What began around her lounge room grew very quickly into the Heathridge/Beldon Women's Community Group, a place to gather, support each other and build the foundations of a stronger community.

Over the years, the group moved into what became known as the Granny Spiers Community House, honouring Frances 'Granny' Spears, whose generosity and community spirit in the early 1900s set the tone for service in our region. The house grew, the programs expanded, and in 2009 it became what we now know as the Spiers Centre, a vital community hub offering support groups, financial assistance, family and parenting programs, a creche, Foodbank services and mental wellbeing support. In the words of Mullaloo resident and Spiers Centre volunteer Marilyn Krueger: 'It's not just about food, clothing or financial help. It's a welcoming place that encourages you to join in, meet people and become a contributor in making other people's lives brighter.'

Joy passed away in August at the age of 85. Her daughter Michelle continues to serve the community through the centre. Moore is better because of Joy's kindness, her persistence and her belief that no-one should face hardship alone.

Second, I want to acknowledge Kim Pring of Hillarys Yacht Club, an organisation I am proud to serve as vice-patron. Kim is the club's training and development manager, and her contribution to local young people and families cannot be overstated. Under her leadership, Hillarys Yacht Club has opened the world of sailing to hundreds of kids and community groups, giving them confidence, safety skills and, for many, a lifelong connection to the water. Over 200 kids registered for her recent try-sailing day, with each given a safe and encouraging first step onto a boat. She also champions SheSails, creating a welcoming and empowering path for women in our community to experience sailing. Rain, shine or full Fremantle doctor, Kim and her volunteers show up. Moore is incredibly lucky to have her.

Joy Coleman and Kim Pring are two women on two different paths with one shared impact. They're leaving our community stronger than they found it. They are the quiet champions of Moore, and I'm proud to recognise them in the national parliament today.

Rebekha Sharkie (Mayo, Centre Alliance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 193, the time for members' constituency statements has concluded.