2017-06-13
Statement from Colleen Hartland:
I feel exhausted just thinking about the amount of work that’s gone into the last eleven years since I was elected in 2006. But wow, has it been worth it.
I’m so proud to have represented you since 2006 in the Victorian Parliament. As a member of Parliament for the Western Metropolitan region, I’ve had the most amazing time, and have had the opportunity to meet incredible people from all walks of life. And I’m so glad that some of the issues I’ve been pursuing over the years are finally getting the attention they deserve in Parliament - issues like Dying with Dignity and a Fair Go for Firefighters.
I’m now ready to move on to the next chapter of my life. One that includes lots of bushwalking and bird watching, lazy afternoons with a book in hand, travelling and exploring new places, and heading to the cinema on pensioner Mondays.
There are so many people who have been a part of this journey with me, and so many people to thank. My husband, Vic, who has supported and loved me for the better part of 4 decades, and never expected me to be a ‘traditional’ wife. The incredible staff that have worked in my office, doing their best to make me look smart. All the amazing members of the Victorian Greens who have thrown their support behind me countless times, held me accountable and shared our wins. And of course, my wonderful Victorian Greens colleagues in the state party room.
And even though I’ll no longer be a voice in Parliament, I’ll still be very involved within the Greens, in community campaigns, and in the western suburbs. And I’m looking forward to working with all of you in supporting the next Greens candidate for the West, so that we can ensure Greens representation in Melbourne’s west for years to come.
So again, thank you. And here’s to the biggest and best campaigns we have ever seen in 2018 and beyond.