- Free Community Reception for Matildas
- Riverstage, Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
- 10am – 11.30am Sunday, August 20 (gates open 8.30am)
- Event to be telecast on South Bank live site
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner will host a People’s Tribute for the Matildas celebrating the team’s historic performance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Fans are invited to be at the River Stage in the City Botanic Gardens on Sunday where the Matildas will take pride of place at a free community reception.
The event will also be telecast on screens at the South Bank live site so as many people as possible can join in.
*NOTE: Autographs will not be possible.
Quotes attributable to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk:
“As a FIFA Legacy Ambassador, I am so proud of our Matildas.
“Their ability, strength and determination has changed the landscape of how we view women’s sport.
“They are all role models and will inspire thousands of little Matildas to pick up a football and play the game.”
Quotes attributable to Stirling Hinchliffe, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and Engagement:
“The Matildas have taken us on a soaring journey on their way to recording new heights for Australian Football.
“One of the most important legacies of this tournament will be the young Queenslanders inspired by the Matildas to join a local football team and be their best.
“The Tillies ensured green and gold fever swept Australia, smashing attendance and television ratings records to make this the most successful FIFA Women’s World Cup in history.
“It’s time to recognise and celebrate their achievements and thank them for the lasting legacy they leave.”
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner:
“The success and determination of the Matildas deserved to be celebrated with the team to secure Australia’s best-ever finish at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“Our Matildas put forward an all-mighty effort in every single minute or every single match and it’s fair to say they have won the hearts of a nation.
“The impact this 23-woman squad led by Sam Kerr has had on women’s sport is unprecedented, and the ripple effect on the growing sector will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
“The Keys to the City are awarded to those who embody the ideals of Brisbane, and the tenacity, team spirit and determination of the Matildas is a perfect example of what it means to be not just a Brisbane resident, but an Australian.
“The FIFA Women’s World Cup has been the biggest international sporting event for our city since the 1982 Commonwealth Games and this celebration will be the best way to mark end of the tournament.
“These inspiring female athletes deserve this recognition and I encourage everyone to put on their green and gold and celebrate the Matildas and cheer them on as they receive the Keys to the City.”
