Street renaming honours premiership heroes

THE City of Greater Geelong temporarily renamed part of one of its streets “Premiership Way” to honour the Geelong Cats’ victory in this year’s AFL Grand Final.

On Monday this week, Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy installed the sign on the northern-most section of Moorabool Street, between Eastern Beach Road and Brougham Street, ahead of the city’s street parade for the Cats players on Tuesday this week.

Starting at the corner of Garden and Brougham streets, the parade travelled along Brougham Street to Moorabool Street, turned right into “Premiership Way” and right again along Eastern Beach Road towards Steampacket Gardens, where a civic reception was held for the players.

Cr Murrihy said the Premiership Way sign would be in place for about 48 hours.

“It’s really to acknowledge what the team has done – a premiership – so it’s Premiership Way.”

He said Geelong’s win had lifted the mood of the city immensely, both before and after the game.

“It’s been unbelievable. Even in the lead-up to the game, you could feel the vibe of the place; really up and about.

“Grand Final Day was extraordinary, there was just excitement about the city.

“And then of course, yesterday, at the family day at the St Mary’s Oval, thousands of people attended, people were up and about – it’s really exciting to be in Geelong.”

Cr Murrihy said the town’s economy, especially its hospitality venues, was also getting a boost.

“It’s just a great feel. People are happy, and when people are happy, the whole city is happy.”

Chair of the council’s sport portfolio, Cr Ron Nelson, said the Grand Final victory over the Sydney Swans was a long time coming for Cats fans.

“The Cats have been so good for so long, so this victory is a fitting reward for the years of hard work and determination.

“Our dreams have finally come true, and we’re thrilled to dust off the Premiership Way sign again.

“Geelong has really bounced back from two challenging years and footy is the sport that brings our whole town together.”