Eddie McGuire has expressed his disapproval of the GWS Giants and the AFL after the team maintained its “orange tsunami warning” ritual during a recent match, despite the serious circumstances surrounding Cyclone Alfred and related flooding events. This pre-game tradition, where a loud alarm sounds and supporters stomp their feet in synchronisation at Sydney Olympic Park’s Engie Stadium, has become a hallmark of GWS home games.
The term “orange tsunami” originally described the Giants’ dynamic playing style and evolved over the years, with the club having consulted tsunami survivors to ensure it was an appropriate marketing tool. However, McGuire, speaking on his podcast with Jimmy Bartel, found the timing of the ritual inappropriate given the cyclone and tsunami warnings across regions of Queensland and New South Wales. He commented, “I don’t mind the marketing tool, but on a weekend when there was a cyclone and tsunami warnings, I thought it was a bit tinny. I just don’t like it.”
Drawing a parallel to more tragic events, he remarked that had they chosen a term like “bushfire warning”, it would have sparked outrage. McGuire appreciated the intention behind the terminology but suggested that the vernacular could be seen as disrespectful, especially considering the memories of those lost in natural disasters, including the 2004 tsunami that claimed the life of AFL player Troy Broadbridge.
The AFL’s decision to allow the pre-game routine to continue during a time of natural disaster was also critiqued by McGuire, who found it contradictory to the league’s usual stance on political correctness. He believed that the Giants should reconsider using the “orange tsunami” phrase, particularly when facing teams like Melbourne, who have personal connections to the tragedy.
Despite McGuire’s concerns, the GWS Giants won their match against Collingwood with a substantial 52-point lead, kicking off their premiership campaign with a score of 15.14 (104) to 6.16 (52). The Giants have not issued a statement regarding the controversy.
McGuire’s remarks reflect a broader discussion around the sensitivity of language in sports and how it intersects with real-world issues, particularly when natural disasters and their impacts on communities are concerned. As public figures navigate these topics, the balance between branding and respect can lead to complex ethical considerations.