Thursday, 11 September 2025

Fitzroy Stars Football & Netball Club

Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (09:46:476:): I rise to celebrate a historic moment for Aboriginal sport in Victoria. The Fitzroy Stars Football & Netball Club have broken a 35-year drought to win the senior men’s premiership in the Northern Football Netball League. The Fitzroy Stars are more than a football club – for decades they have stood as a cultural home, a place of belonging and pride for Aboriginal players, families and supporters. They embody the best in sport with resilience, strength and enormous community spirit. This victory is not just about a premiership flag; it represents something far greater – that young Aboriginal people belong in sport, that they can dream big and that their culture is and always will be their strength.

I especially want to acknowledge Eddie Betts, whose career on the field more than speaks for itself, but what matters most is the example he sets. Eddie has always led the way, showing what it means to lead with pride, with humility and with deep commitment to community. Eddie was on the field on the weekend and won best on ground, so congratulations to Eddie Betts. To the players, volunteers and supporters and the coaches, congratulations. The Fitzroy Stars’ future is bright, and this premiership is a milestone for community and culture alike. You have made us all so proud. Go Stars!