Ms ADDISON (Wendouree) (09:58): Charlie Payton was a stalwart of the Ballarat community and sadly passed away in January.

Charlie was a much-loved, highly respected and passionate advocate for soccer in Ballarat. Not only was he a great player in his youth, but he also shone as a coach, as well as serving on the board of the Ballarat and District Soccer Association, being involved in multiple clubs and hosting a Saturday soccer segment on local radio.

It was in the area of accessibility where Charlie truly made his mark, bringing his love of soccer to local schools, especially the Ballarat Specialist School, and fostering a love of the world game across the region.

Charlie was a credit to his sport and our community and will be truly missed. I send my deepest condolences to Kathleen, to Kirsty and to all members of his family and his friends.

Ms ADDISON: Another wonderful example of the best of our community is the Lyric Theatre and the cast of We Will Rock You, which finally reopened on Thursday after being cancelled last year.

By all accounts the show is fantastic. Well done to Lyric president Michael Whitehead, director Stephen Armati, choreographer Katherine Armati, musical director Jane Nice and choral director Kristiana Withers as well as all the cast and crew of this extraordinary production, and thank you for giving 100 free tickets to Ballarat healthcare workers in recognition of their work throughout the pandemic.

Every city has a population and a postcode, but it is the people who make the community. Ballarat is a great place to live because of the contribution of so many good people.

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