Mr PALLAS (Treasurer) (09:42:29) — Tomorrow is International Women’s Day and I rise to recognise the wonderful contribution of Jennie Barrera, an outstanding humanitarian in my community of Werribee. Werribee is home to some extraordinary women — women of remarkable strength, compassion and achievement. Jenny Barrera is one such woman. She has made a profound difference in the lives of thousands of students in our community. As CEO of the Wyndham Community and Education Centre (WCEC), she has been instrumental to its profound growth and, might I say, its success.

Jennie began teaching at the community centre under government‑funded programs to assist unemployed people and migrants. Jennie’s commitment to lifting young people in Melbourne’s west out of disadvantage and into steady and rewarding careers is universally appreciated by the local community and was recognised through the awarding of life membership of the WCEC in 2017. Further, as chairperson of the Wyndham Humanitarian Network she assists new migrants find affordable housing, offers settlement services and addresses issues of social disengagement. Jennie is
truly a local hero and community leader. She is immensely generous with her time and cares deeply about her community.