Motions — Silver Ferns Victory

I move, That this House convey its congratulations to the Silver Ferns on becoming the world netball champion, after beating Australia in the final of the championships in Jamaica, yesterday. The Cabinet managed to finish a little early to watch the last 15 minutes yesterday, having had electronic updates throughout the game. It was a wonderful moment to see the Silver Ferns come through triumphant. We all remember the endings of two previous major contests—in Christchurch in 1999 at the world championships, where the game went in the last minute, and a similar thing happened in Manchester at the Commonwealth Games. To see this team star like it did yesterday was a triumph. I am sure the House will join with me in offering congratulations.

The Opposition wholeheartedly concurs with the Government in the motion that it has moved. The victory was a magnificent display of spirit over an old foe. I would like to congratulate, in particular, fellow Southlander Lesley Nicol, who has now played over 100 tests for New Zealand, and finally won a world championship. I would also like to encourage all the volunteers and parents who support New Zealand netball, from the schoolgirls right through to the clubs. That is the machine that will produce the next generation of New Zealand world champions.

Motion agreed to.