Ms MACKLIN (9:46 AM) —I am very pleased to be here in the Main Committee this morning to congratulate one of the great government schools in my electorate, Eltham High School, which Deputy Speaker Jenkins would be very familiar with. Eltham High School has just received two awards in Australia's Best Schools competition. Nearly 300 schools were nominated and Eltham High School was the only school across the country to receive a listing in two categories. That is a really outstanding result for this fantastic school.

The first category in which the school received an award was for schools which display a high level of overall achievement in several areas that have been sustained over time. Eltham High School certainly fits into that category, whether for academic or extracurricular activities. It has a great record both inside and outside the classroom. I have seen the outstanding work that the students produce in their written material, in debating and public speaking, in mathematics and in science extensions. The school really encourages the students to pursue their interests in these areas. In the creative areas of photography, media and visual and performing arts, the students are encouraged in the most active way possible to explore all means of expression. A couple of weeks ago I was at the school and it had the best display you could possibly imagine of outstanding art and craft works, which really shows the community the talent that exists at the school.

The second category in which the school received an award recognised schools that excel in a particular area. Eltham High School received this award for its outstanding music department, headed by Mr Ken Waterworth. The music program involves about a quarter of the students at the school and is widely recognised as being exceptional. The children in the music department participate in both the Melbourne Bands Festival and the Royal South Street Eisteddfod, and they have won a number of awards. As Principal Paul Rose says, the school's music program is second to none in Australia. I certainly endorse that statement.

Music is very important in our family. I know how proud parents can be when their children are involved in their school music programs. When the children at Eltham High School perform it is an absolute joy to listen to the music they produce. It is outstanding. It is appropriate that this great school has received these awards because it does encourage participation so much. It is a wonderful government high school. I congratulate everyone at Eltham High School for their achievements. (Time expired)