MR PALLAS (Werribee—Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Industrial Relations)

I congratulate all our athletes who represented Australia in the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics this year—especially those from my electorate of Werribee and the wider Wyndham area.

I’m sure there were many locals like me, glued to televisions and cheering them on from afar.

The display of passion and commitment of our athletes was admirable. Their perseverance and dedication to training is all worthwhile when they are given the opportunity to represent their nation on the world stage among elite athletes.

I particularly acknowledge our Wyndham athletes:

Morgan Mitchell—a dual Olympian who competed in the 800m race,

Amy Cashin—on her debut in the 3000-metre steeplechase,

Dante Exum—part of the Australian men’s basketball team,

Jack Rayner—debut Olympian in the men’s marathon who trains with Western Athletics, and

Jake Ballestrino—who competed in the table tennis. Jake is from Point Cook, and is a well-known member of the Labor community in Melbourne’s west. Good on you, Jake!

Morgan, Amy, Dante, Jack, and Jake—thank you. You have made your country and the Wyndham community very proud.

From Tokyo now to home for some well-earned rest and recovery. We congratulate you and recognise the magnificent efforts of all our athletes who aspire to achieve at the highest level in sport, especially those from Wyndham.

Thanks must also go to your families and your coaches, for the success of being an Australian athlete is not possible without their support and encouragement.