House debates

Thursday, 12 May 2011

Statements by Members

Geale, Mr Daniel

1:55 pm

Photo of Geoff LyonsGeoff Lyons (Bass, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge a Tasmanian who has reached the pinnacle of his profession. Daniel Geale won the IBF world middleweight title in a split decision over Germany's Sebastian Sylvester on 8 May. Daniel is the first Tasmanian to hold a world championship belt and joins other Australian boxing legends Jeff Harding, Lionel Rose and Jimmy Carruthers as the only Australian-born fighters to win a world title overseas.

Daniel's wife, Sheena, and his children Baily, Lilyarna and Ariyelle, and his father, Wayne, and mother, Michelle, like all Tasmanians, feel proud of his achievements. This quiet boy from Bass has shown how dedication, commitment and focus can take you to the top of the world. Daniel is an inspiration to all Tasmanians and all Australians.