90 SECOND STATEMENT: ST AGNES CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL SPORTS COURTS

It was great to be able to attend the official opening of St Agnes Catholic Primary School’s new sports courts last week. Just two years ago I was over at Mt Gravatt announcing $211,000 to go towards the construction of three new multi-use courts at the school. How time flies!

The courts will be used for after school and weekend tennis, netball, basketball and volleyball programmes. It’s not just the students and teachers of St Agnes who’ll benefit from these courts. Local families and sports groups will also be able to use them. The local community will be able to use the courts through programs conducted by Southside Tennis and St Agnes Netball Club. They will collaborate with groups such as TAG5, Cerebral Palsy League, Sporting Wheelies and Disables Association, and Indigenous groups to conduct specially targeted sports programs for juniors, Indigenous, seniors, families, and disabled people.

Thanks to this Government’s investment, more children and families in the Mt Gravatt community will have better and more affordable access to recreational activities, helping them to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle. Overall we expect there’ll be around 1000 different users of these courts each year. It’s all part of our commitment to invest in local communities to ensure everyone has access to place where they can exercise and enjoy sport.

In addition to providing fantastic new sports facilities that the school and the wider community will be able to use for years to come, I’m also pleased to report this project benefitted the local economy, supporting give jobs during construction.

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Flight Simulators on the way to Squadron 215 Airforce Cadets

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta was greeted to a warm welcome at the Airforce Cadets Squadron 215 this week.

Through the Federal Government’s Community Development Grants Program Mr Vasta secured $14,000 funding for the local group to help further develop the cadet’s skills.

Mr Vasta said this funding will enable the club to purchase two state of the art flight simulators for the growing number of cadets to use.

“These flight simulators will give the cadets real experience behind the joystick; I can’t wait to see the looks on their faces when they get to test them out in the next few months.”

215 Squadron Commanding Officer David Bentley said that the funding will equip the cadets with so many great skills including learning how to fly.

“The cadets will be able to help build the simulators, and they will also be taught how to program the simulators, use them and assist with maintenance and upkeep which will teach them valuable skills that they can then use in the program but also out in the real world as young adults.”

The Squadron will officially open the new simulators for use at their closing parade on the 1st December 2018

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MORE SPORTS COURTS OPEN AT ST AGNES

More students, teachers and locals in Mt Gravatt can get set to get on the courts thanks to the opening today of brand new federally funded sports courts at St Agnes Primary School.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta who officially opened the courts today said the new set of flexible, multi-use courts would benefit the community for years to come.

“I’m pleased to have been able to secure $211,000 worth of funding for St Agnes and the community.”

“These courts are going to give local children and families better access to recreational activities and will encourage locals to lead an active lifestyle.”

“The courts will be used by both the school and the community for after school and weekend sports such as tennis, netball, basketball and volleyball games,” Mr Vasta said.

St Agnes Principal Bernadette Judd said thanks to Mr Vasta for the funding the school has been able to complete this project and provide the students with multi-sport courts, additional seating, bubblers and equipment lock up shed.

“This money has given us this wonderful facility to be able to share with our school and parish.”

Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals’ Leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the facility is ideal as they enable a wide range of teams and sporting groups to get involved, and it’s expected that there will be around 1,000 different users of these courts each year.

“We are committed to investing in local communities to ensure everyone can access places like this where they can exercise and enjoy sport,” Mr McCormack said.

“Our investment in these new courts will be a boost for sports teams in the area and will make a significant difference for this community, with this project already having supported five jobs during construction in addition to providing fantastic new sports facilities for ongoing use.”

The project was funded by the Australian Government investing $211,000 and St Agnes Primary School contributing $14,180.

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New Cystic Fibrosis medicine added to PBS to benefit patients in Bonner

The Morrison Government will subsidise a life-changing cystic fibrosis medicine which significantly extends the lives of patients while saving families up to a quarter of a million dollars a year.

Orkambi® will be available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from 1 October 2018 for all patients over the age of 6 years who have the most the most common form of cystic fibrosis – two copies of the f508del mutation in the CFTR gene.

Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said this will provide over 1,200 Australian patients, and their families, with a longer and better life.
“The Morrison Government’s plan to keep our economy strong means we can guarantee the essential services Australians rely on, including subsidising such life-saving medicines.” Mr Vasta said.

Health Minister Greg Hunt also announced, that from the start of September all eligible patients can access the medicine immediately with Vertex agreeing to our request to provide compassionate free access until the medicine is listed on the on the PBS on 1 October.

“Patients would otherwise pay up to $250,000 a year for Orkambi but with the Morrison Government’s investment they will now only pay a maximum of $39.50 per script, with concessional patients paying just $6.40.” Minister Hunt said.

“This is a landmark listing and we know how much it means to the entire cystic fibrosis community.”

“This medicine has been out of reach for many Australian families until now. It is truly life-changing for so many families and it will deliver joy, happiness and the hope of a better life.”

“We moved as quickly as possible to fund Orkambi following a positive recommendation from the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC).”

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. A defective gene causes a thick, sticky build- up of mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Orkambi has been shown to slow the rate of decline in lung function and reduce the number of infections in people with cystic fibrosis.

The PBAC is independent of Government by law and in practice. By law the Federal Government cannot list a new medicine without a positive recommendation from PBAC.

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta said since coming into Government, the Coalition has helped improve the health of Australians by subsidising more than $9 billion worth of new medicines.

“Unlike Labor, we are subsidising all drugs recommended by the independent medical experts. We are now listing a new or amended medicine on the PBS on average every day of the year.” <MP name> said.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said in the recent Budget we announced our commitment to invest $2.4 billion in new medicines to build on our commitment to guarantee the essential services that all Australians rely on.

“Our commitment to the PBS is rock solid. Together with Medicare, it is a foundation of our world-class health care system.” Minister Hunt said.

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CELEBRATE OUR HISTORY ON AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG DAY

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta today encouraged people across Bonner to celebrate with pride the anniversary of the Australian National Flag.

“This year we celebrate 117 years since our flag was first flown above the Melbourne Exhibition Building on 3 September 1901. We are reminded of its importance every day as it flies outside our schools, our homes, our institutions and prominently atop Parliament House,” Mr Vasta said.

“I encourage Australians across Bonner and the nation to unite and celebrate all that Australia represents for them this Australian National Flag Day.”

Mr Vasta visited students at Gumdale State School to present them with a new Australian flag they could proudly fly on their grounds.

“Australian National Flag Day gives individuals, community organisations, businesses and schools the opportunity to come together and celebrate our nation’s rich history, to re-pledge our loyalty to our great nation and reaffirm our commitment to an even stronger future for all Australians,” Mr Vasta said.

“Local organisations that need a new Australian flag can contact my office at any time and I’ll be happy to post one out or personally deliver it myself.”

For more information and resources for Australian National Flag Day, visit the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet’s website: www.pmc.gov.au/flag

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FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS IN BONNER

Over 50 locals from community groups and organisations across Bonner attended a community grants information session hosted by Member for Bonner Ross Vasta on Tuesday.

He was joined by State Member for Chatsworth Steve Minnikin and Councillor for MacGregor Ward Steven Huang.

“It was great to have representatives from each level of government here tonight to talk to people about funding they can apply for. These grants can help cover the costs of vital projects that benefit our community,” Mr Vasta said.

Federal grants rounds that are currently open to Bonner groups include:

Stronger Communities Round 4EOIs open until 3rd September;

Community Sport Infrastructure Grants – open until 14th September;

Volunteer Grants 2018 – open until 18th September;

Safer Communities Fund Round 3 – open until 25th September.

Lisa Nardone from GrantsPlus Consulting also shared advice on putting together winning grants submissions.

“Rule 1: read the guidelines. Rule 2: follow the guidelines. Rule 3: remember rules 1 and 2!” Mrs Nardone said.

Mark Warwick from Mt Gravatt Vultures Junior AFL Club said the information session had been a great opportunity to hear from the three levels of government about the wonderful grant opportunities that are currently available.

“It was a great set-up tonight. I also appreciated being able to speak to Ross and other government representatives afterward, and also Lisa the grants specialist,” Mr Warwick said.

Saranga De Alwis from Iona College said it was important, especially for not-for-profit organisations, to learn what financial support is available to them.

“The funding that’s on offer will help get important projects off the ground. These grants can help organisations plan ahead and ensure necessary funding is available to complete these projects,” Mr De Alwis said.

Local organisations with further questions about Federal, State or Council grants are invited to contact the office of the relevant government representative.

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ADJOURNMENT: WHAT’S YOUR SUPERPOWER

I have some very special guests in the chamber tonight. Laura Lewis and Deborah Oxtoby are two incredible advocates for people with autism in our community. Hi Laura! Hi Deb! They flew down from Brisbane to be here tonight. I hope this speech can do justice to your amazing work and the difference you’re making in so many people’s lives.

This year Laura and Deb started a social group for children with autism. The What’s Your Superpower group meets every Friday night at Waterloo Bay Leisure Centre. In just one month, they grew to over 100 members. They’re growing faster by the day! When you hear their members’ stories and how much the group has helped them, it’s easy to see why.

I first met Laura at one of my weekend mobile offices. The thing that strikes you most when you talk to her is just how passionate she is about the work she’s doing.

Laura’s oldest son Clay has autism spectrum disorder. She recently shared a beautiful piece she wrote on her blog about the struggles she’s been through since Clay’s diagnosis. I’d read the whole thing here if I had enough time! It’s called “To feel like you belong” and I encourage everyone listening to give it a read.

About What’s Your Superpower, Laura says: “I met my peers and we could just look at each other and understand.” What a touching line that says everything about this wonderful group. It’s not just about giving children the chance to hang out with others like them. It’s not just about giving their families a space to socialise without being judged.

It’s about helping others understand—really understand—that people with autism aren’t so different. Deb told me the group breaks down barriers and encourages acceptance. That’s why I’m so happy to be here tonight speaking on their behalf and getting their good word out.

Laura’s son Clay is a great example of people with autism overcoming barriers. After he struggled to find part-time work after school, Clay started his own bin-cleaning business. It’s been a roaring success! He’s in great demand in the bayside area. The glowing reviews on the Clay Needs No Moulding Facebook page all point to what a professional, hard-working young man he is.

I’m pleased to say the tight-knit bayside community has thrown their support behind What’s Your Superpower. Deb tells me after Clay’s story ran in the local paper, some local businesses approached their group asking what they could do to help. It really highlights the importance of what this group is doing.

Laura and Deb started What’s Your Superpower to give kids with autism and their families a place to have fun and be themselves on Friday nights. Now they’re looking to inspire others across Australia to start their own groups.

What’s Your Superpower has helped reduce social isolation for these children. It’s raised awareness in the community. It’s brought local businesses and local representatives like me in to bat for them. If you’re in the Brisbane area, you’re welcome to join them. Or if you can start your own group with other like-minded parents, you can also spread the conversation and advocate for greater support for people with autism.

The Government is also doing its part with two very important announcements on the weekend. We’ve announced the new Autism Advisory Group made up of autism experts, service providers and people with autism. This group will advise the National Disability Insurance Agency on autism and how to deliver the best outcomes for people with autism. We’ve also announced $7.8 million in funding to ensure six Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centres stay open until 2020 and continue providing intensive support to children with autism.

Thanks Laura and thank you Deb for being here tonight. There are great things ahead for What’s Your Superpower and I look forward to seeing the group and its members thrive.

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CONSTITUENCY STATEMENT: DONATELIFE WEEK

Last month we had DonateLife Week. I hope everyone had a chance to have that very difficult but necessary chat with their loved ones.

That week I met an extraordinary young man from my electorate. Lachlan Wallis knows more than anyone how important it is to register as an organ and tissue donor.

Lachlan was born with a disease of the liver meaning he’d always need a transplant. His condition worsened to the point his father David was preparing to donate part of his liver to keep him alive. But, thankfully, a donor was found. Lachlan underwent a liver transplant at eight years old.

Thanks to the efforts of a complete stranger and their family who chose to give the gift of life, Lachlan survived. Now he’s in his last year at Iona College. He’s a tall guy—taller than me! He plays rugby and cricket at school. Looking at him, you’d never guess he was so sick as a kid.

That’s what takes other sick kids and their parents by surprise when Lachlan visits them in hospital. You see, Lachlan organises hospital visits in his spare time, where he helps young patients going through the same thing he did. He tells me when these kids and their families see him, sometimes just after cricket practice when he’s still in his gear, it shows them they really can get better.

Lachlan’s parents also come along on these visits. They chat with patients’ families, sharing what they went through to help other parents. What an amazing family.

I wanted to thank Lachlan for all the great work he’s done in the community. I heard he wanted to follow his grandfather’s footsteps and become a police officer. So I invited him and David to meet local officers at Wynnum Police Station as part of DonateLife Week.

It was a great morning and I was so pleased to meet this inspiring young man. Lachlan says it’s so important to have a chat with your loved ones about your wishes—to join the Australian Organ Donor Register and let your family know what you’ve done. DonateLife Week is over but it’s never too late to sign up to be a donor. You could save a life.

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90 SECOND STATEMENT: PORT OF BRISBANE COMMUNITY GRANTS

The winter break was a great time to catch up with local companies that are going above and beyond in Bonner. One of these is the Port of Brisbane Company. Just recently Port of Brisbane recognised outstanding local organisations for their work in the community through a range of grants. They’ve also been working on a pilot project with the goal of improving safety across the entire road freight industry in Australia.

The Port of Brisbane’s annual Community Grants program is a fantastic initiative. These grants are awarded to local and not-for-profit organisations for innovative projects that benefit the wider community.

I want to thank Port of Brisbane CEO Roy Cummins for inviting me to their recent awards ceremony. It was an incredible event bringing together an incredible group of people. Together these people are making such a difference in our community and it was great to meet them and hear about their work.

Quite a few of them were familiar faces and I wasn’t surprised their organisations were awarded grants. One of them was Nyree Mannion. Nyree started the Make it Home Safely initiative three years ago to educate young people about safe driving. Their Port of Brisbane grant will go toward a new car to support Make it Home’s Learn to Drive program.

Port of Brisbane is also working with the Queensland Trucking Association on another project to improve road safety. Their Heavy Vehicle Safety Around Ports project has just received federal funding through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. The government is proud to support this program that will boost safety in and around the Port of Brisbane and other ports across Australia.

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90 SECOND STATEMENT: SNR SGT TONY BROWN

Today I want to speak about a remarkable figure in the bayside community. Senior Sergeant Tony Brown recently marked 30 years as a police officer. It’s a rare feat in his line of work.

I have to say Tony’s done a terrific job while he’s been acting officer-in-charge at Wynnum Police Station. Earlier this year, he came out to one of my crime mobile offices to reassure residents in Gumdale and Wakerley about local crime and police presence in the area.

The last 30 years have gone by just like that, Tony told me the other day. He’s worked all around south-east Queensland: out in the country as a rural constable, down at the Gold Coast, and in his home town of Wynnum.

Tony’s spent a lot of his career as a detective investigating crime. One of his proudest achievements was putting a lot of time into a homicide at Wishart and eventually securing a conviction. He takes pride in being out in the public eye and reassuring people that things are safe. And thankfully, crime has remained relatively low around the bayside—the biggest challenges he sees in the future are more people and more development in the area, bringing more traffic issues and more demand for services.

Tony you’ve had an outstanding career and you should be proud of everything you’ve achieved. Thank you for all you’ve done for the bayside community. There are great things ahead in your future and I wish you the best.

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