Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

The Casey electorate has been well represented at the Paris Olympics: Harry Garside in boxing, Simon Clarke in cycling, Tayleb Willis in athletics, Mitch Iles in shooting and Kelland O'Brien in the men's track pursuit cycling team. They're all incredible athletes, and I've been following their journey on social media and have seen how dedicated and hardworking they all are. It was a proud moment on 8 August when our community woke to the news that Lilydale High School and Mooroolbark East Primary School alumnus Kelland O'Brien had won gold in the men's track cycling pursuit against Great Britain. Not only are they gold medallists but the Australian team that Kelland is a part of also broke the world record time in Paris—such an amazing achievement for our nation.

It is crucial that we don't just celebrate the gold. There is much to be celebrated in the years and years of dedication that these athletes and their families have endured to get themselves on the world stage. Our community is so proud of fellow Lilydale High School alumni Harry Garside and his journey to the Olympics. Harry began his boxing journey at Lilydale youth club, and I commend him for opening up about the emotions of falling short of his dream in Paris. You made our nation and your home town proud, and I can't wait to see what is next for you, Harry.

Simon Clarke grew up in the Hills, attending Selby Primary School and Billanook College. He credits our hills as the cycling playground that ushered in his development in the early days. All that practice came in handy as Simon competed in the longest race in Olympic history in Paris. In 2016, Simon was on the Australian team for Rio and was the only Australian to finish the race.

Mitch Iles represented Australia for shooting, having trained at the Melbourne Gun Club in Yering. I recently had the opportunity to fire at clay targets, and I completely understand Mitch's love for this sport. It's very addictive. Mitch became Australia's third youngest Olympic shooter in Rio. Congratulations, Mitch, on representing Australia, Yering and the Melbourne Gun Club in Paris.

Last, but certainly not least, Tayleb Willis was our youngest local Olympian at just 21 years of age. He proved his talent and skills against some of the world's best athletes, with a time of 13.63 seconds in his first race. Tayleb was a regular recipient of the local sports champion grant throughout his childhood as he made his way through national championships. It is amazing to see him now representing Australia at such a young age. It was a proud moment for his family, for our community and for his high school, Mooroolbark College.

Congratulations Kelland, Harry, Simon, Mitch and Tayleb for representing Australia and our community on the world stage. We are so proud of your achievements in Paris.

I am also looking forward to the Paralympics later this month, where Healesville local Bridget Murphy will be competing in the para-equestrian dressage. Her whole team is based in the Yarra Valley, and we're looking forward to cheering them on and other locals as more teams and athletes are announced.

While these Olympics have been significant for our success, it is also a significant moment for the families and parents that have sacrificed so much for their children. What we see in Paris is the platform for the next Olympics as young people are inspired by the athletes and everything that they have given to their country.

I was lucky enough last weekend to be at the Lilydale Swim club for their presentation. I support the club and sponsor their club championships. There are some young athletes, including Kynon, who we lost count but think broke 20 club records in the last 12 months. I know he is aiming for the Olympics in four years time. In talking to his mother, you can see the love she has for Kynon but also the sacrifices she is already making so he can chase his dream of the Olympics. Seven days a week he is training in the gym and the pool and working on his nutrition. It's a big financial burden and time burden on his family. But when you talk to his mum you see the pride that she has in him chasing his dream. We know behind every athlete is a family and a community that are giving so much so they can live their dreams.

Congratulations to every Australian who competed at the Olympics. You represented our country with such pride. We are proud of you. Best of luck to the next generation who are already thinking about four years time.

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