NEWHAVEN College’s Youth Parliament Team exhibited remarkable dedication and commitment during their participation in the Victorian Youth Parliament, held at the Legislative Council (Upper House of the Victorian Parliament) during the winter school holidays. The team displayed exceptional preparation, articulation and debating skills throughout the sessions.
The team presented their Bill, ‘The Establishment of Community Gardens Initiatives 2025’. The Bill streamlines the process for establishing and maintaining community gardens across Victoria by simplifying permits and removing barriers. It provides essential resources and expert guidance to support sustainable gardening practices, integrates community gardening into the primary school curriculum to educate future generations, and prioritises environmental protection, including native wildlife and cultural heritage preservation. The Bill also promotes inclusivity by ensuring accessibility and offering opportunities for vulnerable groups to engage through community service.
The College Youth Parliament Team, consisting of Tilly Stecher, Matilda Feehan, Miranda Zalunardo, Gabriel Di Falco, Nissa Campbell Walker and Jasmine Ruffin, displayed exceptional leadership and teamwork. Notably, Matilda Feehan received the Chamber Spirit Award for enthusiastically participating and creating remarkable contributions throughout the entire week.
Year 12 student Miranda Zalunardo said of the experience, “Participating in Youth Parliament Victoria this year was an insightful experience that provided us with the opportunity to engage with a rich tapestry of young people, each with their own insights and perspectives.”
Head of Senior School, Brett Torstonson, was impressed with the students’ enthusiasm, “Our representatives at Youth Parliament in 2025 represented the College superbly. They proposed legislation that would increase accessibility to Community Gardens throughout Victoria. Their legislation passed with flying colours – 46 votes in favour and 2 votes against. The group worked incredibly hard throughout Term 2 to write and edit their Bill. They were required to attend guidance meetings after school and in the evenings in order to ensure their Bill was correctly written, formatted and proposed.
My congratulations to the entire team for their hard work, dedication and preparedness.”
Newhaven College’s achievements in the Youth Parliament highlight the College’s commitment to empowering students and nurturing their leadership potential. The College takes pride in its students’ accomplishments and dedication to addressing important social issues.
