Wednesday, 9 March 2022

 Mr MEDDICK (Western Victoria) (09:46): Once again the magnificent city of Geelong and the home of the greatest team of all, at Kardinia Park, have shown the world what a class act we are, with the only Australian date for that legendary band the Foo Fighters last Friday night. Why would anyone bother with the tennis centre—

Members interjecting.

Ms Shing: On a point of order, President, I have absolutely no idea what Mr Meddick is saying, and I would really like it if I could hear it. Perhaps if he could take it from the top and we could get a bit of quiet, that would be really helpful.

The PRESIDENT: I think Ms Shing’s point of order is a valid point of order. Mr Meddick, can you restart?

Mr MEDDICK: Thank you, President. Thank you, Ms Shing. Once again the magnificent city of Geelong and the home of the greatest team of all, at Kardinia Park, have shown the world what a class act we are, with the only Australian date for that legendary band the Foo Fighters last Friday night. Why would anyone bother with the tennis centre and its paltry 15 000 seats when you can come and play at an arena with over 25 000 people? And on the Saturday night: Midnight Oil, just down the road at Mount Duneed Estate.

In all seriousness, what a weekend in my electorate and in particular in Geelong. What was shown to the world was that Victoria has emerged with its title as the capital of major events in Australia not only intact but better than ever. More than that, the entire world has seen that Geelong is open for business, can hold these events and can do it better than anybody else. Geelong made a statement over the weekend—bring your events to the city by the bay and we will give you the best venues, the best crowds and the best hospitality. Our fantastic city has shown in no uncertain terms that there is nowhere else in Victoria that is worthy of being the home city for the Commonwealth Games should they come to our state. Great work, Geelong. Let’s see much more of it—and go the mighty Cats.