Examiner (Launceston, Tas. : 1900 - 1954), Friday 10 December 1948, page 14


National Game TASLANIANS will whoieheartedly support their only woman Federal member, Dame Eriid Lyons, who, in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, referred to Australian rules football as the national game. Her claim. however, was challenged by the Prime Minister (Mr. Chifley). A congratulatory telegram was sent Dame Enid by National Football Council secretary, Percy Page, of Melbourne. For the benefit of northera football followers the full text of the telegram was:-"Congratulal.ions on your stand. Most regrettable Prime Minister's obvious lack of knowledge of Australian sport. National football is the only Australian sport truly originated in Australia, dating back to 1858 when the Melbourne Football Club was founded. National football is played throughout the Commonwealth. In Tasmania, W.A., S.A., Vic. and the Northern Territory, it is the pnly major football played. In N.S.W. and Queensland its popularity- is steadily increasing. Australians should be justly proud of the heritage given them by their forefathers."