Most people thought this years AFL Grand Final was a matter of formality, with the reigning premiers the Cats already having it in the bag…little did they know the crowd were set for a show down like no other.
In the lead up to the Grand Final, apart from the anticipation for the actual match, people are always interested to see what is to come from the pre match entertainment. Without a doubt, Peter Jones Special Events put on another wonderful display of colour and excitement. It wouldn’t be pre match entertainment with out a little bit of pyrotechnics, so ShowFX were along for the ride as well. As the premiership cup came flying down a zip line with a cloud of smoke and a burst of sparks in tow. Not to mention the motorcade, Ian Moss rendition of ‘Up There Cazaly’, Powderfinger’s LIVE performance and an Australian National Anthem rendition by the cast of Wicked - and to think this was all before the first bounce!
Once that first bounce did hit, it was a display of sheer grit and determination that saw Hawthorn lead the way from start to finish to claim the title of 2008 AFL Premiers. Led by the eventual Norm Smith Medalist, Luke Hodge, the Hawks took it to the Cats to win their tenth premiership in their 107 year existence. The eventual score being Geelong 11.23.89 to Hawthorn 18.7.115 - a solid 26 point victory for the underdogs.
What would the AFL Grand Final be without confetti? As the Hawks took to the stage to receive the Premiership trophy, boy was there confetti! A shower of ShowFX brown and gold confetti covered the team and they celebrated a well deserved win.
Most would think that that was enough excitement for one day, but not ShowFX. Moving on to the post match entertainment at Centre Square, ShowFX put on the mother of all fireworks shows. Firing from Gosch’s Paddock, we filled the night’s sky with every colour imaginable. This 8 minute pyromusical was synchronized to 3 songs, Eskimo Joe - Black Fingernails, Red Wine; Good Charlotte - Dance Floor Anthem and Silverchair - Walking in a Straight Line. The enthusiastic crowd got into the spirit of the event, enjoying the fireworks extravaganza - put on like only ShowFX could.
ShowFX would like to thank Peter Jones Special Events and the Australian Football League for their continued support and look forward to again setting the standard for sporting entertainment in 2009!