Juliana ADDISON (Wendouree) (10:06): On the last sitting day of Parliament for 2023 I wish to take the opportunity to thank my community for the opportunity to represent them in this place. It is a great honour and privilege that I never take for granted.

I wish to thank my extraordinary electorate office staff: Michelle Kerr, Matt Burns and Christy Bell, as well as Jacob Kaye and Matt Deeks, who joined us earlier in the year. No matter how hectic this job is, it is always so reassuring to return to the office, have a cup of tea and a singalong to a rock anthem on 3BA. I am so grateful for your hard work, your excellent humour and your big hearts.

I would also like to thank our principals, teachers and school support staff for their outstanding efforts across the year supporting students and wish them a great break over the school holidays.

I would also like to thank our first responders for the job they do looking after our community and keeping us safe and out of harm’s way.

I would particularly like to thank everyone who works over the festive season. While many of us enjoy a break with our families and friends, you are on shift, turning up day and night to look after us. It is also a very busy time for our retail workers, and they deserve to be treated with respect always.

On Christmas shopping, we have many wonderful businesses and makers right across Ballarat, so please support local when making your Christmas list. It is a gift that keeps giving. Finally, please drive safely this Christmas and over the summer holidays. Wishing you happiness, peace and joy.

You can take a look at more of my speeches to Parliament here.