Ah, the smell of fresh-cut grass, the roar of the crowd, the sound of grown adults screaming at their TVs—it’s Grand Final season, and the border town of Echuca Moama is buzzing! For those new to the area (or living under a rock), we’re smack dab in the middle of one of the fiercest sporting crossovers known to mankind. On one side, you’ve got the New South Wales Rugby League diehards, and on the other, the Victoria AFL fanatics. It’s a rivalry so intense, even our dogs, Lenny and Stanley, pick sides (Lenny barks for AFL, Stanley is strictly league!).
But it’s not just about the footy. Oh no, my friend. In recent years, the real showdown has shifted from the field to the stage—who has the best entertainment? Yes, while some are arguing about whether that last-minute try should’ve been disallowed or if that mark was truly “speccy,” others are getting stuck into the true battleground: the pre-game entertainment.
The Entertainment Showdown
Let’s break it down for you:
NSW Rugby League Grand Final:
Rugby League fans pride themselves on grit and toughness, but when it comes to entertainment? They’ve been stepping up their game. Recent years have seen performances from Aussie rock legends like Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes, belting out classics that can make even the burliest front rower shed a tear. This year we saw The Kid LAROI step out with his rendition and remix of “Baby I’m Back”. A take on the 70’s classic “Baby Come Back”. Add some fireworks, laser lights, and a bit of pyrotechnics, and Rugby is ready to party. The post-game usually involves Sweet Caroline echoing through the stands as fans celebrate—or commiserate—with cold beverages in hand.
AFL Grand Final:
Meanwhile, in AFL land, it’s a show. Victoria knows how to do pre-game entertainment with the kind of flair that would make even Broadway blush. Think international headliners like Robbie Williams (great win by Geelong that year too!) or this year Katie Perry and our very own Tina Arena, alongside massive, choreographed displays involving hundreds of dancers (because, of course). There’s nothing like watching a rockstar belt out a tune on the MCG while the entire city of Melbourne sways in unison. Even if you’ve got no idea what’s going on in the game, the entertainment will make you feel like you’ve paid for a concert with a side of sport!
But Who Did It Better?
In Echuca Moama, this debate rages just as fiercely as the game itself. Rugby fans love to keep it raw and authentic—”Who needs international acts? We’ve got Barnsey!” they cry. AFL fans, though, won’t let it slide—”Sure, rugby’s got heart, but did you SEE the stage setup for Katie Perry this year?” Then there was 2022, Oh, and Oh “Yes Robbie”, you can entertain us any time our friend. It’s a showdown as epic as the game.
And The After-Party?
We know how Echuca Moama likes to celebrate—or drown their sorrows—depending on who’s holding the trophy at the end of the day. The after-party often involves BBQs, beers, and the occasional makeshift karaoke performance (I’m looking at you, Cuz John, and your rendition of Khe Sanh). Of course, with all that celebrating, you might need somewhere to store your pop-up party tents, your AFL scarves, or that suspiciously oversized Rugby League flag you “borrowed” from the pub.
Storage for All Your Post-Game Shenanigans
Once the final siren blows and you’ve managed to wrangle your voice back after screaming at the ref for 80 minutes, consider us here at Echuca Moama Storage. Whether your team came out on top or you’re already muttering “next year,” we’ve got space for your footy memorabilia, BBQ gear, and even those inflatable mascots that don’t fit in the garage anymore (we won’t ask).
And don’t worry, we’re an all-codes-friendly facility. Whether you cheer for the mighty AFL Hawks or the hard-hitting Rugby Panthers, we’ll store your gear with all the care of a perfectly executed tackle—or a silky-smooth drop punt.
In the End, It’s All About Community
At the end of the day, our beautiful border town of Echuca Moama knows how to rally together, no matter which team wins or who had the better halftime show. So, grab a drink, fire up the BBQ, and let’s enjoy the great footy weekend together—because here, we’re more than just Rugby and AFL fans. We’re locals, we’re neighbours, and most importantly, we’re all just looking for a good time (and maybe a decent place to store our footy gear when the season’s done).
May the best team—and entertainer—win!
