PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENT: NICKLIN ELECTORATE

I rise to provide an update to the House on the fabulous community groups in my electorate of Nicklin. I am delighted to report to the House that I am now the patron of SPIRAL. Supporting People in Respite and Lifestyles, SPIRAL, is a not-for-profit disability service provider, established on the Sunshine Coast in 1981—the International Year of Disabled Persons. They are renowned for providing services to empower potential and equality through growth, innovation and community support. SPIRAL are on a mission to listen and co-create services that empower self-determination and choice for people with disabilities, including innovative skill-building programs, growing connections with others and advocating for communities where everyone can thrive.

The Yandina Historic Society recently reopened their museum to the public after being refurbished. I joined them on their open day to help them welcome back visitors. The volunteers have done a wonderful job of bringing our local history to life. If people ever have the chance to visit I thoroughly recommend stopping in for a scone or a toasted sandwich while they take in works by local artists and ponder the various historical artefacts on display.

I spoke to president Col and local historian Audienne about the grant the organisation is receiving from the state government to help celebrate Queensland Day. They are planning a family fun day on Saturday, 4 June 2022, with stalls and historic displays, food and lots of fun times. I would like to extend an invitation to all in the House to attend.

I had the privilege of recently attending the Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards, recognising individuals and organisations who have made invaluable contributions to our local way of life. I am happy to report that, once again, the electorate of Nicklin was punching well above its weight with regard to nominations across all categories. I would like to congratulate James Coles from RangeCare for being named Senior Citizen of the Year; Jack Watson from the Nambour Youth Chamber of Commerce for taking out joint Young Citizen of the Year; Kenilworth Community Transport Service Subcommittee, Nambour Community Centre, Nambour Meals on Wheels Service, CWA Palmwoods and the Nambour Salvos for their nominations in the Community Group category; ECOllaboration for their win in the Environment category; and Toni Eggleston and John Waldron for their win in the Creative category.

I would like to give a reminder to the House that this weekend the Nambour Expo will be on at Sunshine Coast showgrounds, which is in Nambour. I encourage you all to attend what will be a fantastic weekend of latest caravans and camper trailers, holiday destinations, boating and fishing, vehicle accessories, camping gear and more—all in one convenient location. While I am on my feet, I would also like to invite everyone to Picnic for Parky’s at the Lake Boreen recreational area on Tuesday, 5 April.