Rita Saffioti: Major milestone as last ever diesel bus manufactured in WA leaves the depot

West Australian

21-05-2025

1. The tragic passing of Adam Selwood last week has impacted so many people. Our condolences go out to his family and friends as they grieve through this very difficult period.
2. This tragedy has again shone a spotlight on the issue of mental health, and how we all need to work together to support each other across the community. It's so important we make sure everyone knows there is help available for anyone going through difficult times.
3. It is National Volunteer Week, a great opportunity to reflect and thank all those people who generously give up their time to make our community a better place. I know with local sport in particular, clubs and organisations rely so much on the goodwill of people to help at weekend sport and weeknight training. Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers across our suburbs and regions.
4. I had the opportunity to visit Hands Oval in Bunbury last Friday — so impressive. Also, I met some local junior soccer players. They are so excited about the prospect of having the Matildas play in their hometown in June.
5. AC Milan will be back in Perth this winter! In their only match in Australia this year, they will take on our very own Perth Glory in a preseason friendly at HBF Park. Expecting a big and loud crowd at this incredible venue come July 31, with plenty to travel to see the Rossoneri.
6. The new Australian Hockey Centre is really taking shape, with the first of four international standard pitches now complete. Perth will continue to be home of the Australian high performance hockey program. This new centre will ensure WA can play host to major events in the future and ensure that we encourage more and more participation in this sport. We saw a growth of 7 per cent in hockey participation last year and we know new facilities help encourage more involvement.
7. It was incredibly fitting for Jack Della Maddalena to receive a champion's welcome home to Perth. Fantastic to see such a great turnout at the Yagan Square amphitheatre on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate WA's first ever UFC Champion.
8. Last week we released the concept plan for the Perth Entertainment and Sporting Precinct for community consultation. This will be an incredible precinct for the entire community, bringing together new public infrastructure, live music, entertainment, arts, culture and sport. Head to the Building for Tomorrow website to provide your input.
9. A major milestone for public transport this week, with the last ever diesel bus manufactured in WA leaving the depot. Every bus manufactured from this day forward will be electric. It's the start of a cheaper, cleaner and more efficient public transport system.
10. Like many, I have been drawn back into watching F1 because of the Drive to Survive series. I used to watch F1 with my cousins, but lost interest until the Netflix show began. While missing the big personality of Daniel Ricciardo from the series, Kimi Antonelli has been an exciting new addition. The 18-year-old's first race in Emilia-Romagna, his home region, saw him bring his classmates on an excursion to the Imola racetrack. What a great story!