Andrew Broad (Mallee, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

I inform the House that, as part of the Northern Mallee Leaders Program and the Loddon Murray community leadership program, more than 50 young Australians are visiting this parliament today. These are impressive young people—some are not so young—and they are here to sharpen their axes and to make sure that they will become great community leaders. A man who is going to chop down a forest first sharpens his axe. They are here to learn from leaders on both sides of this House about how to contribute to their communities. Developing leaders from vibrant and sustainable communities across the region is their passion, and it is my strong belief that our greatest natural resource, as Australians, is our people.

Among these people—I have had a look at some of their bios—some are involved in Sunraysia Fruit and Vegetable Swap. Some are involved in sports mentoring and in community fundraising through sport. There are White Ribbon advocates who want to minimise family violence in our community. Some have travelled internationally to assist poverty-stricken communities. I will be hosting them for a meal tonight, as will the member for Bendigo. It is so encouraging to see that we have young people who care about their communities, who come to the Australian parliament. You are welcome. Enjoy this; this is your house. May you all go on to do great things to make the places where you live even better places to live.

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