Electorate gets a good going over

By Callan Date
THE Federal election is yet to be called but that didn’t stop a local Liberal candidate doing his best to drum up support last Monday.
Liberal candidate for Holt Emanuele Cicchiello had Federal Community Services Minister Senator Nigel Scullion by his side during a tour of facilities at Narre Warren Central Children’s Centre.
Victorian Senator Mitch Fifield also joined the touring party as the group spoke with staff, learnt about the centre’s programs and met with children and their families.
“The Narre Warren Central Children’s centre is run by Yooralla and caters for children with disabilities,” Mr Cicchiello said.
“Their program incorporates play, education and therapy for children with additional needs as well as information and support to family members,” he said.
Mr Scullion was keen to find out more about the successful Mother Goose and PaPa Bear program, which is run by Yooralla and is aimed at integrating children with a disability with youngsters who do not have a disability.
The initiative also helps family members become more closely involved in their children’s development.
Representatives from more than 30 local community and volunteer organisations later took part in a forum with the Liberal contingent held in Narre Warren.
“The Federal Government recognises that local volunteer groups, community organisations and sporting clubs are the heart of our local communities,” Mr Cicchiello said.
“The forum provided an opportunity for local groups to hear how the Federal Government is assisting community organisations through its Volunteer Small Equipment Grants (VSEG) program.”
More than $100,000 was allocated to 49 local community groups and sporting clubs in Holt with the 2007 VSEG funding round enabling them to buy much-needed equipment.
“The Federal Government understands that local groups are best placed to judge their needs but too often they lack the financial resources needed.
“The Volunteer and Community Group Forum was a great opportunity for local groups to meet with one another and spread the word about the good work they all do,” Mr Cicchiello said.