Wednesday, 9 February 2022

Maribyrnong Park Football Club

Mr PEARSON (Essendon—Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Regulatory Reform, Minister for Government Services, Minister for Creative Industries) (09:41): Footy clubs are like big noisy families. Members come together in a common purpose and intent, and they support each other, they celebrate victory, they push each other to greater heights and they comfort each other in defeat, with the most important element being the togetherness that belonging brings. My own big noisy family is part of the Maribyrnong Park Football Club—the Marby Lions. It is a footy club of and for the community, and it brings hundreds of people from my electorate together.

The Marby Lions family has recently experienced a loss of three of its own, and I rise today to pay tribute to each of them. Bill Stunnell was a life member, former committee member and treasurer and had an involvement with the Marby Lions of over 70 years. He was well known for lending a hand and was a particular supporter of the women’s football program. Gordon Tribe was a life member too, and he made a huge contribution as a goal umpire, a scoreboard operator and a supporter who knew the names of every single player.

Brenden Wallis died in a tragic workplace accident in November. He was far too young to leave behind his wife, Emma, and children, Phoebe and Jack. I spent many Sunday mornings with Brenden cheering on our kids and hearing about extraordinary efforts during lockdowns to boost the spirits of junior players and keep them well connected. Brenden was a friend, coach and mentor to many at the club, and his loss has been devastating for the Marby Lions. I pay my heartfelt respect to the families and loved ones of Brenden, Bill and Gordon. Footy clubs are at their best in times of trial, and I know the Marby army will rally and come together. Vale, Bill. Vale, Gordon. Vale, Brendan. Go Marby!