Last year in this House I spoke about the plight of the South West Goannas, a local rugby league club. In late November the club was unceremoniously expelled from the upcoming 2024 season by New South Wales Rugby League and other group six clubs. Media at the time reported those events as "Battling club sensationally booted from 2024" and "Rugby league fans around the Macarthur region are in shock." In my speech at the time, I strongly urged the relevant decision-makers to reconsider their decision and the club's exclusion. After giving that speech, I was contacted by numerous people from across the rugby league fraternity, among them players, administrators and journalists. Many have expressed similar views to mine in support of the Goannas. One or two were not so supportive, and that is their democratic right.

However, I am pleased to provide the Chamber with an important update on this critical matter for rugby league in my part of the world. Last month the Goannas were reinstated to the 2024 competition. The club successfully argued its case to the New South Wales Rugby League appeals board, ably backed with legal support from Byles Anjos Lawyers. With their season back on track, the team has been working overtime to get ready for the big season ahead with former National Rugby League stars Greg Eastwood and Brad Takairangi heading the roster.

I popped down to training a couple of weeks ago to give the Goannas some rousing words of encouragement in anticipation of their round one clash with the Narellan Jets that took place this weekend. My rousing words seem to have done the trick. Despite a 12-0 deficit at half-time, the Goannas went on to score six unanswered tries in the second half to take the game 34-12. Special mentions go to Wylleon Baker, who bagged two tries, and Brad Takairangi, who had a perfect five from five with the boot. Comeback kids both on and off the field, a special thanks must go to club president, Mark Baird, and vice-president, Korj Kadir, for their commitment and perseverance. I wish the Goannas all the best for the season ahead.