Steven Lopes OAM and Nicole Lopes OAM
Mr FREGON (Mount Waverley) (12:46): I rise to update the house in recognition of two exemplary community members, Steven and Nicole Lopes. They have been recognised for their service to Little Athletics as part of the 2022 Queen’s Birthday honours with a Medal of the Order of Australia for both of them. They have been involved in community Little Athletics in my patch for about 22 years, joining Waverley Little Athletics in the year 2000. Starting as an age-group assistant, Steven served on the committee from 2000 to 2005 and was president from 2003 to 2005, while Nicole volunteered behind the scenes, and both continued to volunteer in weekly key roles until 2008. Now, while their children finished at the club some 14 years ago, they both continue to volunteer their time at regional and state championship events every year. So on behalf of the Mount Waverley district community I would like to thank both Steven and Nicole for their dedication to serving our community and congratulate them both on the tremendous honour of Order of Australia.