Milton Dick (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, I advised the Leader of the Opposition earlier today that I'd be making a short statement on indulgence to congratulate and send a shout-out to the Australian Wheelchair Rugby League team, which flew to London earlier this week to prepare for the Rugby League World Cup. For the first time ever the tournament fixture includes the men's, women's and wheelchair teams, so we have the Kangaroos, the Jillaroos and the Wheelaroos. I think I that sends a very powerful message about equality and about inclusion.

Members may be interested to know that, unlike Paralympic events, there are some players who live with disability while others in the team do not. It sees itself as a game for everyone. Craig Cannane started playing rugby league when he was 10 but stopped at age 19 when a motorbike accident left him a paraplegic. He assumed he would never play again. Next week will be his third World Cup and his first tournament wearing the green and gold alongside his son Corey. It will be the first time any father and son have competed at a World Cup. I want to wish Craig and Corey, captain Brad Grove, head coach Brett Clark and all the members of the Wheelaroos squad, as well as the Kangaroos and the Jillaroos, all the very best of luck.

I understand the Wheelaroos are taking on the Poms in their first game next Friday. I can't think of a better way to start a tournament than beating England in England. Representing your country on the world stage is a great honour. We know you will do Australia proud and that you will have the support of not just everyone in this chamber but all Australians.

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