It has been a very busy time since I last wrote my State of Affairs column.
The Premier visited Mountain District Learning Centre in Ferntree Gully, the Minister for Ambulance Services joined me at Belgrave Station in Tecoma to meet with paramedics, the Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services joined me to open the upgraded and modernised Cockatoo CFA building, and the Minister for Local Government joined me at Emerald Library for book week.
Most recently, the Minister for the Environment braved a very cold Olinda day to announce that more funding has been allocated to complete Stage Two of the Olinda Precinct development – a win for locals and visitors alike!
Olinda Precinct Stage Two – A new chapter for the Dandenongs
The Olinda Precinct continues to evolve into a vibrant hub for recreation and community connection.
Stage Two of the project is now underway, with additional funds secured to deliver formalised car spaces with drainage to avoid standing water in the existing car park as well as additional car spaces closer to the oval, a new toilet block near the play space, new shelter facilities, landscaping, and a connected pathway to the Olinda township.
This will make the area more accessible and family friendly.
Premier’s visit to MDLC and The Avenue School
It was a privilege to host the Premier at the Mountain District Learning Centre (MDLC) and The Avenue School, which opened this year, in Ferntree Gully.
Originally a women’s co-op, MDLC has grown into a cornerstone of our community, offering education and support to people of all ages.
The Avenue School is a new specialist senior secondary school supporting students who require alternate secondary pathways.
The Premier’s visit highlighted the transformative impact these institutions have on young lives.
Minister for Ambulance Services visits Belgrave
It was wonderful to welcome the Minister for Health and Ambulance Services to Belgrave Ambulance Station in Tecoma. Our local paramedics, now equipped with a new four-wheel drive ambulance – the first of its kind in metropolitan Melbourne – shared insights into their work navigating the hills’ challenging terrain and talked us through the ongoing training they undertake to keep their skills current.
We then visited Belgrave Community Pharmacy, where we discussed the success of the Community Pharmacist Program with Pharmacists Arthur and Emily.
This program is delivering vital health services locally and at no cost to the user, unlike other states which charge a fee.
It is helping people access the oral contraceptive pill, treatment for uncomplicated UTIs, shingles and mild plaque psoriasis, and travel health vaccinations without needing to see the GP – saving time and money.
It’s one of the many ways we are working hard to ensure people can get better access to healthcare.
Free government health initiatives
In addition to the Community Pharmacist Program, we are continuing to improve public health through a range of free initiatives.
Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) provides a free, 24/7, public health service treating non-life threatening emergencies.
VVED can be accessed online via vved.org.au
The Virtual Women’s Health Clinic is also now open with a team of nurses who deliver an initial health assessment which may then include some treatment, or referral to a health practitioner.
Bookings can be made via each.com.au/services/virtual-womens-health-clinic or phone 1300 003 224.
Power Saving Bonus – Relief for concession card holders
To help ease cost-of-living pressures, the Allan Government has launched a new round of the Power Saving Bonus.
Eligible concession card holders can now apply for a one-off $100 payment via the Victorian Energy Compare website. Applications are open and can be made by visiting powersavingbonus5.energy.vic.gov.au, support is available by phone 1800 000 832.
As always, I’m here to listen and advocate for our community.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your ideas, concerns, or feedback at danielademartino.com.au or call my office on
9754 5401.
