Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I was honoured to represent the people of Holt at a dedicated mass for the new St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Clyde North. Both local community members and dignitaries attended this dedication. We were fortunate to be joined by senior members of the clergy, including His Excellency Charles Balvo, apostolic nuncio to Australia; the Reverend Gregory Bennett, the Bishop of Sale; the parish priest, Father Denis; and the state member for Cranbourne, Pauline Richards. This was an incredibly special event for me, as this was the first time I had the pleasure of attending the dedication mass for a new church.

What made it more special was seeing this in my electorate of Holt. United as one community, we walked together from St Peter's College to the new church. Seeing so many people from various backgrounds together reminded me of the amazing spirit that we have in the south-east parts of Melbourne. This is the spirit in which I approach my role as the member for Holt. I thank the parish for their invitation and for all the work that they do in the community. Lastly, I would like to wish my mother, Bernie Fernando, a happy Mother's Day. To all the mothers in my electorate of Holt and across Australia: have a wonderful Mother's Day. Thank you very much.