Friends in High Places

A Memorable Day for Coolbinia Junior Football Club Starkick player Mathew with WA's Political Leaders at Parliament house. 

In a heartwarming turn of events, Mathew, a young sports enthusiast, who loves his Fremantle Dockers,  had the extraordinary opportunity to meet two prominent Western Australian political figures, Simon Millman MLA and David Templeman MLA, as well as new WA Premier Roger Cook. He and his family enjoyed a memorable lunch in the Parliament dining room prior to spening time in the Public Gallery during question time. Throughout creating a day he and his family will cherish forever.

The special encounter began in 2022 when Simon Millman MLA and David Templeman MLA made a generous visit to a Starkick session. Starkick is a local sports program dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage AFL. During their visit, Mathew had a friendly game of "Kick to Kick" with the Sports Minister himself and discussed football and politics.

Fast forward to June 2023, and Mathew and his family found themselves at the heart of Western Australian politics when they were graciously invited to Parliament House for lunch and a behind the scenes tour.

Mathew has been an inaugaural Starkick player since 2015, as a valuable member of the Coolbinia Bombers JFC Starkick centre. Over the proceeding 9 years Mathew has not only met a number of Political leaders, but also had a kick with AFL stars, played half time of AFL games at Optus Stadium and made many new friends through his Starkick journey.

 This latest experience is one that will leave Mathew with futher lasting memories.