Joel Fitzgibbon (Hunter, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Agriculture) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The horrific and tragic injury suffered by NRL player Alex McKinnon reminds us of the dangers of body contact sports. The young Newcastle Knights forward hails from Aberdeen in my electorate and is a local hero and a role model for younger players. The tackle which led to Alex's injury will no doubt spark a debate about rule changes, particularly in relation to the so-called three-man tackle. That is a welcome thing. It is a debate we should have, and I am confident the NRL will act to ensure the game is as safe as it possibly can be without undermining the excitement and the attractiveness of the code. Our thoughts and prayers are with Alex McKinnon and his loved ones. I know all members will join with me in wishing him a full recovery and a long and happy life.