Mark Dreyfus (Isaacs, Australian Labor Party, Cabinet Secretary) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to celebrate a remarkable young woman, Kimba Wall, who lives in my electorate of Isaacs. Kimba, at 34 years old, lives with Down syndrome, yet this does not define her. Kimba stands as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we look beyond labels and focus on potential, determination and passion.

From an early age, Kimba's life has been filled with music and performance. At just seven years old, she broke new ground by becoming the first young person in Australia with Down syndrome to feature in an advertising campaign for a national retailer, Target. And, for the past eight years, Kimba has been a member of the BAM Allstars, an extraordinary arts group where individuals with additional needs can shine as performers. Through BAM, Kimba has showcased her acting, singing and dancing talents at iconic Melbourne events. She's performed at the Melbourne Zoo, the Werribee park zoo, the St Kilda Festival, fashion week in Bendigo and Google HQ. I'll also highlight her extraordinary performances at Government House during Australia Day celebrations. True to her unyielding blissful spirit, she shared much-needed dance tips with the then Victorian Governor, Linda Dessau AC.

Her story, as shared in this brief speech today, becomes even more remarkable. In 2023, Kimba starred in a short film produced by BAM called The Healer that was later entered into the Focus on Ability film festival. The festival highlights short films about people with special needs and reaches audiences in 43 countries. Kimba and her co-star were nominated for best actor and were announced as joint winners. The Healer also won best film. Kimba delivered a fantastic acceptance speech to a capacity audience in Sydney, proudly representing BAM.

However, Kimba is most proud of her long involvement with the Chelsea SES in my electorate of Isaacs. She served as the official SES ambassador, and her father, Phil, has been a dedicated volunteer for over two decades. But, of course, there's more to this story. In April 2022, Kimba embarked on a groundbreaking adventure. She became one of the first individuals with Down syndrome to be a fully-fledged Victoria State Emergency Service member. Having completed her training as a crew member supervised, she also contributes to the community engagement, fundraising and awareness team. Kimba deservedly wears the SES orange uniform with immense pride.

Kimba's motto is: 'I love my life.' It reflects her resolve, optimism and determination to change impossibilities to possibilities.

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Her untiring positive approach inspires and motivates genuine inclusion for those around her. Kimba Wall reflects the best of us. Her story is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary things that can be achieved when we refuse to be defined by limitations. She sees what is possible where others do not. To you, Kimba, I express my heartfelt gratitude for all that you do. Your remarkable achievements and contributions to our community have and will continue to transcend any perceived limitations. Thank you.

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