Alex Hawke (Mitchell, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It was a privilege to host 150 student leaders from across the 16 public and private high schools in my electorate at the 23rd Mitchell youth leadership forum. The forum was held from 17 to 19 October at the YMCA Yarramundi and was an incredible success. The forum was a 2½-day live program for new year 11 students based on the values of integrity, service and courage. The energy and enthusiasm of the students this year was truly remarkable. I look forward to seeing their growth reflected in the new friendships they have made across the schools and in our local community.

I want to express my gratitude to our dedicated volunteers, the 65 former students who attended the program in the past, whose tireless efforts made this forum possible again this year. I commend and thank: our committee members Tristan Smith—our CEO, Ronie Quinn, Jan Cox, Ged Lewis, Thomas Kelly, Jessie Peake, Ken Shaw, Daniel Ridley, Marcus Cannon, Veneta Webster, Jane Doherty, Lauren Nowacka, Simon Teh and Renee Salecich.

I extend my thanks to all of the principals for their ongoing participation in the Mitchell youth leadership forum, which I have run each year since becoming member and, indeed, to the principal's attending the workshop with their students, who were delighted to see them over the 2½ day program.

During the forum students agreed engaged in team-building activities, small group discussions, and the community service projects were well received this year at Aminya Aged care Village, McCall Gardens and Riding for the Disabled at the Tall Timbers Centre. They painted fences, they washed cars and they did community service. They had a thoroughly great time getting to know new friends across their school community. I want to acknowledge our major sponsors and thank them for their support. (Time expired)