Raff Ciccone (Victoria, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I do want to change the tone in the Senate just for a moment. As you'd be aware, the AFL season is less than a month away, and I certainly cannot wait. But today I want to draw attention to the Collingwood Football Club's inspiring work away from the footy field. Recently, over the summer break, I was pleased to receive the club's Community foundation impact report 2024.

People doing it tough are being given an opportunity to connect and belong. There are two pillars to the foundation: Barrawarn and A Nest for All. Barrawarn, which means 'magpie', oversees activities in support of First Nations people through cultural awareness and education, while A Nest for All ensures that everyone has a place to belong through the Magpie Nest Cafe, Magpie Nest Housing, the Collingwood Foundation football team and wheelchair football. These programs support those who are experiencing homelessness, mental illness, disability, substance abuse, domestic violence or social and economic hardship. The foundation also has a formidable partnership with the Salvation Army's Melbourne Project 614, which offers housing and meals to those in need. For example, the Magpie Nest Cafe is operated by the Salvation Army, with the help of the foundation, providing over 10,000 free meals each month.

I'm proud to see my club kicking goals away from the footy field, delivering programs that have a profound impact on the community. Well done, everyone at the foundation, including the board and Kerrie Brewer, the executive general manager, and her team, for fostering social and cultural change through football. Keep up the great work. And go Pies! I look forward to the 2025 footy season.