Josh Frydenberg (Kooyong, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Just a few weekends ago—on Saturday, 23 September—I had the pleasure of watching the mighty Balwyn Tigers win the Eastern Football League division 1 grand final at Bayswater Oval. The victory over the Vermont Eagles by five goals was not only a triumph for coach Daniel Donati, captain Rennie Gilchrist and club president Richard Wilson, but also a testament to the great spirit of a club that has seen it play in 15 consecutive finals series since 1996, culminating in seven premierships. In fact, this year's flag was won from fourth position on the ladder, only the second time it has been achieved in EFL history.

Balwyn is a proud club with deep roots in our local community. Since it first graced the field in 1918 Balwyn has found its home at Balwyn Park, on Whitehorse Road, in the heart of the Kooyong electorate. Hundreds of people turn out each week to watch a team that has produced numerous AFL players, including Luke Power, Leigh Montagna and Greater Western Sydney player Tim Golds. It must be said that the team's success was tinged with a touch of sadness a few weeks ago. A year ago, young Tiger Shaun Bergin tragically died after an injury sustained in a semi-final. In the words of captain Rennie Gilchrist: 'He's with us. We play with his spirit.' And so they do. I congratulate the club on its victory and wish it continued success in the seasons ahead.