Lisa Chesters (Bendigo, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to share with the House the sad passing of Warren Acott, 'Woz'. Woz was known to many of us because of his famous Mow Down MND ride to Parliament House, where he rode his ride-on lawnmower from Toolleen in my electorate to Parliament House to raise awareness of MND. Woz was diagnosed with MND in July 2023. It is a devastating disease that affects the nerve cells. Many of us have met constituents who've had situations similar to Woz's.

Woz inspired many with his journey. He met with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health and Aged Care, as well as many other parliamentarians. He inspired people with his lawnmower ride to Canberra, and his legacy will be remembered. At one point during his trip, he had a fall, lost consciousness and needed paramedics to take him to hospital. I think many of us remember his bravery and his spirit.

On his passing, I'd like to acknowledge his family for their loss and thank them for sharing their story. Woz was a character. He was a truckie with a big heart, and he didn't want to let his disease get the last word. He made a difference. He made all of us think, and he made all of us a challenge: to make sure that we do more. Vale, Woz. Rest in peace.