Page 1135 - Week 04 - Thursday, 21 May 2020
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bushfires and the smoke that hung around for a few months and then the current crisis of COVID-19. But so many people in Gungahlin, and of course Canberra, have been affected, and I have been speaking with many businesses in my electorate of Yerrabi that are finding it hard to keep the doors open but also to support their staff; grassroots sports trying to keep afloat; stressed parents trying to juggle work and also homeschooling kids; older Canberrans feeling disconnected from their social activities that have obviously been on hold. I am certainly making sure that I can get out in the community every day to visit local businesses, touch base with residents and speak to local sporting clubs, just offering my support in any way I can.
Mr Parton: Good on you, Jim.
MR MILLIGAN: Thanks, Mr Parton. While many Canberrans have been struggling, I have also heard some amazing stories of kindness. I believe it is in times like these that our community spirit is strengthening, and it reminds me of what I love about my neck of the woods in Gungahlin. I will definitely be looking back on this and remembering all the small acts of kindness we showed to each other despite the challenges.
I want to talk about a few of these stories. If you find a child in Gungahlin and ask them about the bear hunt, I bet they will know exactly what you mean. Teddy bears and soft toys have been propped up in windows all across Gungahlin, ready to be spotted. It has been a great way to keep a family entertained while getting out and getting some fresh air, with the help of the bear hunt Facebook group.
Over in Ngunnawal, Margaret and her team of volunteers have been running the Ngunnawal street pantries with the message: “Take what you need; give what you can.” The pantries have been so valuable to residents doing it tough. Close by, the Gungahlin Uniting Church’s Mustard Seed Pantry have kept up their amazing work, providing food relief to those in need. While a lot of us have been focused on COVID-19, the G Spot has also continued to support communities impacted by the bushfires on the South Coast, collecting winter clothes, blankets and other goods, getting them to those who desperately need it. Donations are what keep these groups running and providing the amazing support that they do. I thank everyone who has donated to them.
With my background in small business, I also love hearing about how local businesses are finding new and innovative ways to do business. Husk Bakery, known for their colourful croissants, have been travelling around selling freshly baked goods to you in your driveway out of their new van. Siren Bar and Restaurant in the Gungahlin town centre has also got some great takeaway options, from seafood platters at Easter to local treat platters for Mother’s Day. It has really brought home how dedicated and motivated businesses are in our region. Gordon and Ruth from the Wombat Den have not been sitting still either. They have been cooking up a storm in the kitchen to make care packages for their neighbourhood: cakes, slices, pies, you name it. Gungahlin has incredible community spirit.
Hearing these stories make me so grateful to call this part of the world home. I will continue to hear their stories of kindness and innovation every day. And it reassures
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