Matt Burnell (Spence, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I want to tell the House about a proud sporting club based in my electorate of Spence, one that I was proud to recently join for their much-anticipated sponsors' day: the Willaston Sporting Club, better known as the Donnybrooks. More than just a football club, they're a vital part of the community's identity, bringing together generations of players, families, volunteers and sponsors since 1889. They play on grounds rich in history—once a World War II RAAF base, later a migrant hostel and now Elliot Goodger Memorial Park, named after a local mayor who served his community with distinction. Like most sporting clubs across the community, at Willaston they are bound by a shared love of footy, netball, cricket and the unmistakable smell of Deep Heat from the sheds.

But the club has grown far beyond its humble facilities, fielding more teams across all ages and genders without the modern infrastructure needed to keep pace. That's why the town of Gawler has developed a comprehensive master plan for the precinct in close consultation with the Donnybrooks and local residents. The goal is clear: facilities that reflect the modern game, encourage participation and honour the club's legacy. I'll continue working with council to help bring that vision to life, because Donnybrooks have earned it and this community deserves it. In closing, congratulations to the under-16 girls and the senior women on both securing a 2025 flag.

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