Basem Abdo (Calwell, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to recognise the important work of ICMG Women's Meadow Heights community and acknowledge their incredible efforts in raising $12,000 in support of Northern Health, contributing to vital health services for families across our region. Their efforts extend far beyond fundraising. For years, these remarkable women have been supporting Northern Health with hand-knitted clothing and accessories for patients and newborn babies. This work matters, and I have a particular appreciation of its impact. I was heartened to see their work, where I was reminded of the maternity and women's health ward, of the NICU ward where my son spent weeks, of the wonderful nurses, doctors and staff. That work at the Northern Hospital saves lives and holds families together in their most vulnerable moments. In those moments, community can also be there in ways that matter as well.

Their work continues to grow. I am pleased to see them now partnering with the hospital on new initiatives that will bring comfort and support to cancer patients throughout our community. It is why I'm incredibly proud of the team and volunteers at ICMG Women's, who are doing everything they can to support Northern Health. As we marked International Women's Day just a few days ago, they remind us of the incredible women in my community delivering acts of service, care, dignity and hope.

There are many organisations in my community doing important work that are delivering outcomes for our area. Eritrean Families in Hume and the North is a vibrant organisation working across my electorate and Melbourne's north. What stands out about EFHN is the energy and leadership it brings in building engagement and opportunity for many people in our community. Importantly, as I've seen, it is across all ages. I've had the opportunity to attend activities and programs hosted by Eritrean Families in Hume and the North and have seen the impact of their work in promoting participation, wellbeing and positive connections through sport. Importantly, I have seen how everyone plays a part in this grassroots organisation and how leadership is spread amongst all ages. EFHN's active role within the Eritrean community in my electorate has helped to create meaningful opportunities for people to engage, build skills, leadership capability and a strong sense of community connection.

Like many of the diverse communities contributing to our local area, I'm grateful for the positive impact EFHN continues to have in the lives of people, particularly young people, across our area. I congratulate the new committee, the members who support the delivery of programs, their ADAL initiative and wish them every success as they continue with their important work.

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.