Cameron Caldwell (Fadden, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Last week marked the celebration of National Volunteer Week, which is a special opportunity to highlight the invaluable contributions of volunteers within our community. Volunteering is the backbone of our community, and I extend my deepest gratitude to every person who generously dedicates their time and expertise, enriching the local community in Fadden.

Another big part of National Volunteer Week is encouraging new able individuals to get involved. Recently I received a message from a local chef who was inspired by one of my Facebook posts to volunteer with Paradise Point Meals on Wheels in the hopes of supporting her community. This is an outstanding example of how one person's contribution can add so much value to organisations through sharing their skills and expertise. Meals on Wheels at Paradise Point is one of the many valuable community-run initiatives providing an important service to those who are most vulnerable. With over 7,000 dedicated volunteers, Meals on Wheels delivers a staggering 2.6 million meals across Queensland alone, reaching out to more than 19,000 individuals with diverse support needs. But Meals on Wheels, of course, offers more than just a meal. It's about the human connection, providing a vital lifeline of social interaction and companionship.

I'm so grateful for the opportunities I've had to work with the exceptional Paradise Point team throughout the years, and I implore those who are capable to explore the realm of volunteering. As part of this year's federal volunteer grants, Paradise Point Meals on Wheels recently received $5,000 in funding towards continuing their valuable work. Other successful applicants throughout Fadden included the Animal Welfare League of Queensland who are located at Coombabah, the Labrador Girl Guides and Pacific Pines Panthers Basketball Inc. I thank all of those and the other successful applicants for everything they do for our community.

In the spirit of acknowledging volunteers, I want to highlight the exemplary efforts of our RSLs, community groups and schools in organising Anzac Day services across our electorate last month. This is the first time I've had an opportunity to speak about this wonderful day on our calendar. It was an honour to participate in the Anzac Day services at Helensvale, Runaway Bay and Paradise Point this year and to have representatives attend on my behalf at many others, including my wife, Lauren, who attended the Upper Coomera service which is being held at its location in Upper Coomera for the last time before the monument is moved to allow roadworks. Special thanks go to the Runaway Bay RSL, the Northern Gold Coast RSL and the many community groups and schools who delivered this year's services. It's heartening to witness the enduring legacy of reverence for those who bravely served our nation on the battlefield being not just preserved but passionately passed down to forthcoming generations. The tradition of Anzac Day ensures that the sacrifices made by our Anzacs are not forgotten but are cherished and honoured for years to come.

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