Syndal Prechool and George’s Morning Tea

Congratulations to the 2025 George’s Gymnastics Program, a community-based initiative led by Tash Brusco from Monash University’s Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre. Over five weeks 200 children living with a disability from seven special schools took part in an inclusive gymnastics session, including Vermont South Special School and Glenallen from my area. Its moving finale served as a powerful reminder of how sport can create meaningful opportunities for every child. Thank you to Tarsh for her outstanding leadership, and a big thankyou to Tanya, Collin, Anita, Aisha, Noelle, Cath, Neve, Olivia, Amelia and Sarah from Waverley Gymnastics Centre and to Tan, Emma, Isabella, Kaya, Natasha, Taeyah, Kirsten, Mohmadaiyaz, Caitlin and Bec from Monash University for their support in making this program a reality. I acknowledge the retirement of centre director Jennifer Bons after 16 years at Syndal Preschool. Guided by her unwavering belief that decisions should be made in the best interests of children, Jennifer has helped shape Syndal Preschool into a welcoming space that local families cherish. Her recent legacy includes leading the creation of an inclusive outdoor learning area, made possible through the Labor government’s Building Blocks grants program. I also want to acknowledge the committee of management, led by president Dr Rachael Roberts, for their role in bringing this project to life and for their ongoing contribution to the preschool’s operations.