Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Impact Dance Festival, held at Warners Bay Theatre, Baramayiba, from 28 to 31 August. This four-day contemporary dance festival was a wonderful showcase of the creativity, talent and innovation that exists within our region. The festival invited dancers, creative professionals and audiences alike to experience the transformative power of contemporary dance and multidisciplinary arts. It was designed to foster artistic development and cultural connection, and it certainly delivered on that vision. Supported by Catapult Dance Choreographic Hub, the festival brought acclaimed artists to the stage alongside commissioned works from leading Australian choreographers. I had the pleasure of seeing Triple Bill, a program that highlighted the power and imagination of contemporary dance through stunning performances. It was a truly inspiring experience and a testament to the strength of the arts in our region. The festival also featured deep-dive masterclasses with professional artists, along with artist talks and panel discussions covering First Nations cultural protocols, regional creativity and building strong arts organisations. The Impact Dance Festival has enriched our local arts community and celebrated the incredible talent within Lake Macquarie and beyond.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!