Sporting Excellence

The Hon. M. EL DANNAWI (15:11): My question is to the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing. Will the minister inform the council about some recent sporting achievements in the community?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (15:11): I thank the honourable member for her question and interest in our sporting success. This week has been an incredible showcase of sporting excellence at a national, state and local level. While national teams have delivered some thrilling results, I want to take a moment to highlight the outstanding performances which continue to make South Australia a true sporting powerhouse. Focusing on our national achievements first, the Young Socceroos made history by scoring their first-ever AFC Under 20s Asian Cup title.

An honourable member: Hear, hear!

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE: Absolutely. I understand it came down to a penalty shootout, and we became the winners of that incredible tournament. I especially congratulate the six South Australians from this team on this historic win. Staying overseas for the moment, I also congratulate the Jillaroos, who are our national women's rugby league team, on their stunning victory in Las Vegas as part of the NRL promotional match. I understand, in a spectacular performance, the Jillaroos dominated England 90-4, in what has been described as the perfect performance. It doesn't get much better than that.

Turning to state cricket, I was thrilled to attend the one day cup final with my family where South Australia celebrated a long-awaited victory in the inaugural Dean Jones Trophy, defeating Victoria on Saturday night. I understand it has been over a decade since the South Australian team has lifted a major trophy, making this win even more significant. Under the leadership of coach Ryan Harris, the team delivered a stellar performance. This triumph is a testament to the hard work of the players and coaching staff, and I extend my congratulations to the entire squad for this achievement.

Switching now to the AFL preseason, South Australian fans were treated to two exciting match-ups that set the tone for the upcoming season. I understand the Adelaide Crows pulled off a remarkable come-from-behind victory—yes, finally—against Brisbane Lions, a result that will give Crows supporters like me, and many others in the chamber, some hope for this season ahead.

Members interjecting:

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE: Absolutely. While I am mentioning the great Crows, 30 March will be a game not to miss, as the Crows will be playing a game dedicated to the emergency services, where over 3,000 tickets will be made available to emergency service personnel and volunteers. I thank the Crows for making this opportunity available and encourage members in the chamber to extend that offer to members in the community. It is a great one to get behind.

Soccer fans also had an exciting week, with Adelaide United involved in a thrilling 4-all draw against Aukland. I understand the high-scoring encounter highlighted the attacking strength of both teams, providing fans with an entertaining game. At a local level, I am pleased to advise—back on Yorkes—that the Paskeville-Boors Plains Cricket Club became the A and B grade premiers. That would have been a big night in town. I understand that Mallala are also through to the Barossa and Light Cricket Association A1 grand final, after defeating Sandy Creek in the semi-final, to play South Gawler on 22 March.

Beyond the weekly fixtures, South Australia continues to establish itself as a premier sporting destination, bringing significant attention, tourism and economic benefits to our state. With so many outstanding performances and events taking place, both internationally and locally, South Australia continues to showcase its passion and excellence in sport.