UPDATE: Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles has taken center stage at the North Melbourne Grand Final Breakfast, filling in for an absent Anthony Albanese. The event, held at Jeff’s Shed this morning, marks a cherished tradition since 1967. With the grand final day in full swing, the gathering featured a mix of business leaders, sports icons, and political figures, all eager to kick off the festivities.
In an unexpected twist, Marles entered to the electrifying 1990 hit “I’ve Got the Power”, declaring his support for the Geelong Cats while his boss was overseas. “Today, we’re ditching diplomacy and backing Geelong,” he announced, much to the delight of attendees. This moment comes as a stark contrast to Albanese’s choice to attend a royal engagement at Balmoral, which North Melbourne president Dr. Sonja Hood cheekily suggested was “one of the most un-Australian things” to miss the grand final for.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement and humor, as Hood remarked on Albanese’s absence, joking, “Apparently, Albo has chosen Balmoral with the King over the MCG and the grand final.” Her lighthearted jab resonated with fans who were eager to see their leaders show support for Australian sports.
Deputy Premier Ben Carroll was also part of the festivities, receiving a playful serenade of “The Vengabus,” referencing his time as public transport minister. Despite not holding the position for two years, the nostalgic tune sparked laughter and camaraderie among the crowd.
As the event progressed, Billy Brownless, a Geelong legend, captivated the audience with anecdotes from his illustrious career. He humorously recounted how former Premier Jeff Kennett once attempted to lure him into politics—a venture that fizzled out dramatically. “I collapsed outside Treasury Place when journalists quizzed me on the independence of the auditor-general,” Brownless quipped, highlighting the sometimes chaotic intersection of sports and politics.
This year’s breakfast not only celebrates the grand final but also serves as a reminder of the strong ties between Australia’s sporting and political communities. With the excitement building for the day’s match, fans are eagerly sharing highlights from the breakfast on social media, further amplifying the event’s significance.
As the grand final approaches, all eyes will be on Geelong and their performance on the field. Fans and political figures alike are hoping for a thrilling showdown that will add another chapter to this storied rivalry.
Stay tuned for more updates as the game unfolds, and watch for reactions from key figures in both the political and sporting arenas.
