I acknowledge and thank Connect: Inner West for their hard work and initiative in organising a calendar of social gatherings and outings for local seniors to enjoy over the upcoming winter months.

We know social isolation and loneliness are amongst the most significant challenges facing older people in our community, particularly over the past few years of COVID lockdown. For older and vulnerable people in our community, a lack of access to quality, affordable transport only serves to deepen social isolation, as well as access to essentials like food and medical care. Not only does Connect: Inner West provide door to door transport to those who need it most, by creating this calendar, it is also proactively working to connect and engage older and vulnerable people across the Inner West.

The winter calendar includes a range of events including the fit and fabulous walking group, lunch at Inner West institution Hawke's Brewery, or an essential Bunnings trip! I warmly thank and congratulate all those at Connect: Inner West for all they are doing to ensure sure everyone in our community has access to quality and affordable transport.