Jason Falinski (Mackellar, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On 26 August, I witnessed the Warringah Rats achieve a hard-fought victory in the grand final of the prestigious Shute Shield tournament, winning their first piece of silverware in 12 years—a memorable occasion. The Rats showcased the strength and resilience of community sport on the Northern Beaches, winning 30-25 against the reigning champions, Northern Suburbs, after an outstanding performance by all players in front of a sellout crowd. Such an achievement follows a difficult year for both the club and the local community, which tragically lost one of their own, Lachlan Ward, earlier this year. Led by Lachlan's brother Sam, who wore his brother's shoes, winning the shield was a fitting tribute to a cherished member of the family that is the Warringah Rugby Club.

I congratulate the other players, including man of the match Harry Jones, coach Darren Coleman and staff and members of the community that made this victory possible. I would also like to commend the resilient spirit of all those involved with a club that four short years ago was on its knees. Its tenacity is truly reflective both of the importance of grassroots football to the local community and of the persistent attitude that is so deeply ingrained in our sporting tradition.