Trish Cook (Bullwinkel, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In times of global uncertainty, we often look for a sense of home and belonging that goes beyond the physical address. For me and many in my electorate, that sense of belonging is found in communities that ground us. Recently, I had the joy of attending St Cuthbert's Feast Day at St Cuthbert's Anglican Church in Darlington. Joining Reverend Peregrin and the Right Reverend Bishop Kate, I was reminded that places of faith are not just buildings; they are sanctuaries of peace, community and continuity. Places like St Cuthbert's provide the moral and spiritual compass that helps us navigate the complexities of the modern world with grace and resilience.

That same spirit of stewardship was on full display when I had the honour of attending the Bilgoman Wells restoration project opening. This project is a masterclass in what a community can achieve together when it honours its roots. The community contribution included meticulous research by local archivist Lyn Myles and local historian Cliff Burns, whose dedication ensured that this piece of heritage was not lost to time. It took a village to bring that history back to life. The Friends of Bilgoman Wells, led by the indefatigable Chris Durrant and ably assisted by Dr Diane Parker, did an incredible job enlisting the help of our local schoolchildren from Helena College. They imparted to the next generation that they are the keepers of our local history. With the vital sponsorship of Bendigo Bank and the support of the Shire of Mundaring, the restoration stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and community. It shows that, when we look after our history, we're really looking after our future.

Health care remains the number one priority for the people of Bullwinkel, and I'm incredibly proud to report on the early success of the Mundaring Urgent Care Clinic. Since its doors opened just one month ago, the clinic has already seen 580 presentations. That is 580 times a local resident received high-quality care without an out-of-pocket cost and without having to wait and go down the hill to the emergency department. These aren't just statistics; they represent 580 moments of relief for parents with sick children or seniors needing urgent attention, and it's a clear signal that, when we invest in accessible, local, bulk-billed services, we change lives. I'm honoured to represent a community that works so tirelessly to keep up our spirit and our services and keep us strong.