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Ms ADDISON (Wendouree): Whilst the bushfires have been so devastating for so many people, for wildlife and for the environment, the way that members of the Ballarat community have responded shows our community at its very best.

I wish to honour and recognise all members of the Ballarat community who have fought fires, organised fundraisers, given a helping hand and donated money. Today I would like to share just a few examples.

Thank you to the members of the district 15 strike team that went to the Gippsland fires.

Thank you to venturer Corey Loader, who was asked to help Clifton Creek Primary School and rose to the challenge and sourced an Australian flag and a pump.

Thank you to everyone who donated money at the City of Ballarat Summer Sundays events.

Thank you to Karl and Clem, who organised the Dunnstown to East Gippsland Hay Run.

Thank you to Sam McColl, Lisa Laine, local musicians and the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute for putting on a sellout charity concert.

Thank you to Charlotte, Nellie and Hugh from Ballarat North, who set up a little stall to raise money for the bushfires, with lolly bags, books, raffles, lemons and more, and raised a total of $481.

Thank you to the North Ballarat Sports Club and the 200 people who attended one of the biggest bingo nights, who raised $6500 for the CFA.

Thank you to the Ballarat Wildlife Park, who welcomed Willy the wombat from the Gorge Wildlife Park in South Australia.

Our community is made up of so many local heroes. Well done and thank you.

Click here to read more of my contributions in Parliament. To access further Hansard transcripts, head to the Parliament of Victoria website.