Mr PALLAS (Werribee—Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the Coordination of Treasury and Finance: COVID-19)

I pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of outgoing Wyndham City Councillor Henry Barlow, who has announced his retirement from council and will not be contesting the upcoming elections in October.

Henry has represented the residents of Wyndham admirably and carried out his duties with passion and in the pursuit of fairness.

He has demonstrated a commitment and service for the entire Wyndham community, not just for the people residing in his ward.

Henry was first elected to council 23 years ago in 1997.

He has been elected mayor three times and has displayed great leadership for fellow councillors and incoming councillors who were fortunate to learn from his experience and mentorship.

As the councillor holding the cultural diversity portfolio, Henry welcomed many new migrant groups who have made Wyndham their home, acknowledging and celebrating their diversity.

He has represented Wyndham on many committees and has carried out these duties with professionalism.

As the local member, I have enjoyed working alongside Henry. We have worked collaboratively for the betterment of the Wyndham community.

I will miss Henry’s advice and support from the council, his dedication to our community and his friendship.

I know that Henry will continue to be a much-respected presence as a local resident in the community and will continue to be a strong supporter of our state government.

I wish Henry all the best in retirement, and I wish him and Pam the very best for the future.