Thursday, 24 September 2026

 Matthew GUY (Bulleen) (09:43): I would like to offer my congratulations to the South Melbourne footy club, one of Australia’s most decorated and oldest football clubs, for reaching the final of the Australia Cup, which will be played on 10 October, where they will meet Melbourne Victory. It is a game that has been 21 years in the making. Many of my constituents are of Greek heritage and have followed this club for generations. South Melbourne was not just a football club when it was formed in 1959, it was a cultural heartbeat of the Greek community. It did not just produce footballers and coaches like Trimboli and Postecoglou; it was a place of belonging for those who had recently arrived from Greece. And now, on 10 October, 67 years later, South Melbourne fans of all generations will see their club on the biggest stage again.

It will be a wonderful occasion to see two of the most successful football clubs from two very different eras go head-to-head. I know many of my constituents would love to see South Melbourne back in the A-league, and perhaps a win here for South over Victory may prove that this is the right time for them to make a return. I know the South team has done an extraordinary job on and off the field, and many of the constituents believe the Hellas supporters will far outnumber those of Victory. So here’s to a wonderful game, and may the best team win.