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

Over the past month we've seen many of our local sporting clubs wrap up their seasons. Holt is one of the most diverse electorates in Australia but, whether you speak English, Punjabi, Dari, Sinhalese, Tamil or Hindi, there's one sport that unites us all: cricket. The Casey Tuskers were formed in 2001 to bring the Sri Lankan community together through their passion for the game. Like most teams, they've had their ups and downs in the field, but what makes the Tuskers special is the sense of community they build.

At the end of August, the Tuskers held their awards night to celebrate the players, volunteers and families who support the team each week. I can't mention all the winners, but I want to give a special shout-out to the Team Champion Award recipients: Shanogeeth Shanmuganathan for grade 1 and Heshan Silva for grade 2. You have been outstanding examples of the team's values all year. A big thank you to the club president, Rumesh Abeysinghage, and the treasurer, Malan Abeyrathne, for hosting such a wonderful event.

The Cranbourne Eagles wrapped up their season with their presentation night on the eve of grand final day. Footy in Australia is more than just a sport; it's part of our DNA. It brings us together and teaches us some of life's greatest lessons. It's a place where young players grow into leaders, where every member, whether on the field or on the sidelines, contributes to the strength of this club. To the coaches, volunteers and family members who show up week after week: your dedication makes all the difference, you are the backbone of this team and without you the season would not be possible. I give a special mention to the co-captains, Zak Roscoe and Dylan Cavalot, along with coach Steve O'Brien and president Terry Gleeson. Your hard work and dedication makes the club and our community stronger.

Finally, congratulations to the award winners on the night: Zak Roscoe, Max Keenan, Liam Foggo, Liv Klug, Isabella Hetherington and Brendan Mentha. Your achievements continue to inspire the whole community and beyond.