What a year 2019 has been. We saw the return of Beaconsfield Netball star Ciara Nelson on the court after her life-saving surgery, not only winning the premiership but the best player on the day. Ciara continues to be the perfect example of strength, hope, determination and fighting the odds at all costs. We also heard from some amazing locals on my Brad’s Brew Podcast (which you can listen to on Apple Podcasts or www.bradsbrewpodcast.com) like Mick Hayes from Purple Haze Tattooz who upholds a high standard in the tattoo industry inking many generations of our local community.
We also saw the expansion and continued rise of the men at O MY who just a few weeks ago received two hats. We are fortunate not to have to travel far to experience quality dining.
Beaconsfield Primary School opened its amazing wetlands, further enriching the learning environment for students. I was lucky enough to join students on National Tree Planting Day to help plant some natives for their new wetlands.
We also had some wins locally, especially with our roads. Thanks to the help of many locals who signed my petition we were able to secure funding from Jason Wood MP and the Federal Government for the upgrade of O’Neil Road and Glismann Road intersections, which are both currently at tender. We were also able to reduce the speed limit increase at the O’Neil Road intersection in the meantime to help improve road safety in the area.
And one of the most significant reliefs were for commuters and residents on Kenilworth Ave. Our battle with Council since 2016 seems to be over with the construction of the road now finally able to be completed.
But we do have some battles to be won especially with Beaconsfield Train Station, not only getting the Government to build the additional car parks but the upgrade of the station with more shelter and to re-introduce the toilet facilities.
As we head into the festive season, I would like to remind anyone who is planning on going away into regional Victoria or any bushland to please have a fire action plan. Do not forget, it is not just people living in bushfire zones that need to be prepared, so too do holidaymakers and visitors to these areas. Please make sure you download the Vic Emergency App and adhere to all fire restrictions and advice from local CFA Brigades.
Over the summer, remember in days of extreme heat to check on your vulnerable and elderly neighbours or family members. Also, remember your pets, make sure they have plenty of shelter and water- an ice block in the water works a treat!
Merry Christmas to you and your family and I wish you all a Happy New Year, and I look forward to continuing my work with you in 2020.
Brad Batttin MP
State Member for Gembrook
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services
Shadow Minister for Youth Justice, Crime Prevention and Victim Support
