Brett Whiteley (Braddon, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Deputy Speaker Scott, you really do need to visit the City of Burnie in my electorate over the next few weeks; it will do you the world of good. Burnie comes alive in the early weeks of spring, with a huge number of opportunities for families, the young, the old and the excitable. Now, Mr Deputy Speaker, I have got you in the excitable category, because last Friday I was honoured to launch Burnie Shines, a month-long festival during October of high-energy events and significant levels of community spirit. This year's theme is 'It's a Small World After All', which focuses on celebrating amazing things being done by amazing people in small groups in my city—groups like the City of Burnie Brass Band, which has been operating for 125 years; the Orchid Society, which still includes some of the original members from its inception 52 years ago; and the Burnie Ten—a Australia's premier out-of-stadium footrace that attracts nearly 5,000 people—which is going to celebrate its 30th year of massive volunteer support. Our city by the sea is coming alive with street stalls, film festivals, the annual Teddy Bears' Picnic, art exhibitions, the glamorous Burnie Shines Cocktail Party and the 321 Go Kids Race that attracts nearly 2,000 people.

I congratulate Jenny Cox and the marketing and events team from Burnie City Council and the hundred community groups that are putting this month together. I look forward to seeing you in my electorate, Mr Deputy Speaker.