The return of the AFL State of Origin on February 14, 2024, marks an exciting revival of a beloved sports tradition in Western Australia. After a 26-year hiatus, the event will take place at Optus Stadium, promising to reignite passion for Australian Rules Football among a new generation of fans.
Rita Saffioti, the Deputy Premier of Western Australia, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, recalling the epic matches of the 1980s and 1990s. “I can’t wait for a new generation to fall in love with AFL Origin,” she stated. This event is expected to attract significant crowds and bolster local economic activity.
The recent Sandover Medal and Dhara Kerr Medal ceremonies celebrated outstanding achievements in WA football. Charlie Constable from Perth Football Club was awarded the Sandover Medal, while Krstel Petrevski from Subiaco received the Dhara Kerr Medal. The awards ceremony highlighted not just the winners but also their inspiring journeys, with Constable moving to WA after stints with Gold Coast and Geelong, and Petrevski rising to prominence after playing football with her brothers in Halls Creek.
Looking ahead, the WAFL Grand Final is scheduled for Sunday at Optus Stadium, and excitement is building. Saffioti encouraged fans to attend and support their teams, particularly urging support for the Bulldogs.
In a significant step towards enhancing community well-being, the WA Government is investing $39.5 million into free parenting support through Ngala. This initiative, beginning next month, aims to assist families and reduce hospital visits related to post-birth mental health challenges.
The financial health of Western Australia remains strong, as confirmed by international credit rating agency S&P Global, which reaffirmed the state’s AAA credit rating with a stable outlook. This financial stability has allowed the government to make substantial investments in health, housing, and infrastructure, fostering job creation and securing the state’s future prosperity.
In other developments, residents of Perth recently caught a glimpse of the spectacular lights on the new ECU campus. Featuring over 2,800 custom LED lattice fixtures, the campus is set to transform Perth’s skyline when it opens next year.
Changes to WA’s public holiday schedule are anticipated to be introduced in Parliament this week. Following extensive consultation, Saffioti expressed confidence that these adjustments will support economic activity while celebrating the state’s spirit and diverse culture.
Metronet on Swan, the largest expansion of Perth’s ferry network, has progressed with development applications submitted for two new terminals at Matilda Bay and Applecross. This expansion aims to enhance public transport options along the Swan River, a service that has been a reliable means of transport for over a century.
As many local sports teams approach their finals this month, Saffioti took a moment to thank volunteers, coaches, and canteen staff who tirelessly support community sports. She specifically noted her daughter’s upcoming netball grand final against the top team, reflecting on the challenges posed by wet winter weekends.
The combination of sports revival, community initiatives, and economic growth highlights a vibrant chapter for Western Australia, as the state continues to celebrate its achievements and embrace future opportunities.
