What a day it was to be crowned premiers after 40 long years and in front of a bumper crowd at our home, the Ilinden Sports Centre.

We cannot thank enough this wonderful group of players, coaches and staff.

Equally, to each and every sponsor, current and former committee members, and fans.  It has been a true team effort. Each and every person who has contributed to the club’s success has played their part and for this, we are grateful.

We are also fortunate to have the support of our local Bayside Council and in particular Mayor Saravinovski but also the likes of Councillors McDougall, Sedrak, Nagi and others, our hard working State Member the Honourable Steve Kamper, the ever supportive Member for Heffron Ron Hoenig, the Premier the Honourable Chris Minns, and to our outgoing federal member, the Honourable Linda Burney, we salute each of you for having vision and for supporting football in our area.

So many people have sacrificed their time and have contributed financially.  It is a true community club and we never forget those who came before us to make this possible.  So to everyone, including our wonderful Macedonian community in Rockdale, we say thank you.

Now we move onto a sudden death semi-final this Sunday.

Napred Ilinden.