Address to Parliament by Libby Coker MP on 26th September 2022:

In case people didn't know, 2022 is now officially the year of the Cats.

For those who were in a cocoon on Saturday, the Geelong Football Club, the mighty Cats, had a thumping win. Commiserations go to those of you who are Sydney Swans supporters. It just wasn't your day. But any team in the league would have struggled against the onslaught the Cats delivered on Saturday. The streets of Geelong were jumping on Saturday night, flooded with jubilant supporters, with blue and white flags and streamers everywhere. Geelong Footy Club is truly an extension of the community, and that's no accident.

Leadership on and off the field has long been their hallmark, and no player has shown more leadership than Geelong captain Joel Selwood. Joel led by example. On Saturday he was a warrior on and off the field. Selwood began the day by carrying former premier teammate Gary Ablett's son, Levi, through the banner. After the game, he gave his boots to the Auskick kid who presented him with his medallion, and he acknowledged the contributions of one of the club's young water boys. These were acts of humility and respect. There's no more inspiring leader than Joel Selwood.

On Saturday, the Cats were a show of strength. They were rewarded for their perseverance and commitment through tough COVID times. It was a reward for the fiercely loyal Cats supporters too. Go Cats!