excerpt from Sun Herald Sun
"GEELONG is a city reborn as it celebrates the Grand Final win with a party that lasted long into last night and in some parts will be still going this morning.
Around 7000 people packed out Federation Square in central Melbourne to watch the Cats players brandish the premiership cup for the first time in 44 years.
The atmosphere in the city centre was electric as jubilant fans hit the streets cheering and singing.
Thousands of people poured into the CBD turning the area into an unofficial street party. Police closed streets in a bid to control traffic as supporters hung out of car windows and climbed lamp posts.
Some fans had even painted their cars blue and white in honour of their heroes, while others draped blue and white bunting and balloons from verandas and shops.
In scenes reminiscent of New Year's Eve, strangers embraced on the street."
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Cats' premiership party rages on
By Aaron Langmaid
GEELONG is a city reborn as it celebrates the Grand Final win with a party that lasted long into last night and in some parts will be still going this morning.
Around 7000 people packed out Federation Square in central Melbourne to watch the Cats players brandish the premiership cup for the first time in 44 years.
The atmosphere in the city centre was electric as jubilant fans hit the streets cheering and singing.
Thousands of people poured into the CBD turning the area into an unofficial street party. Police closed streets in a bid to control traffic as supporters hung out of car windows and climbed lamp posts.
Some fans had even painted their cars blue and white in honour of their heroes, while others draped blue and white bunting and balloons from verandas and shops.
In scenes reminiscent of New Year's Eve, strangers embraced on the street.
It was a squeeze for in many of the city's pubs and clubs and Bended Elbow manager Stefan Gillberg said he had put on extra security.
Cats fan Steve Mitchell said the entire city was proud of the team.
"It's just fantastic. We've been waiting 44 years for this and we all plan to enjoy every moment," he said. "It's been a long time coming and we are going to savour every minute."
Eruption of emotion
At the Cats' home ground, Skilled Stadium, a sea of blue and white erupted as more than 6000 fans celebrated the victory at the final siren.
The club song rang out across the ground well before the last kick and thousands of fans were on their feet for the final moments.
Emotions ran high as supporters shared in the flag glory.
Cobram resident Tony Ventre drove for four hours to watch the game televised live at Skilled Stadium.
"I shed a tear when the siren went, that's how important it was to me," he said.
Geelong resident Liz Middleton said she had been an ardent supporter her whole life.
"I was born in 1964, so I have been waiting a long time for this. It's a very special victory," she said.
"It's going to be really good for the city, give it such a lift. It's exactly what we need."
Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood said it was an awesome time for the city.
"Geelong residents will be celebrating until Christmas," he said.
Mr Harwood said the win would be a big boost for the city, which has struggled in the past 12 months with major job losses and economic woes.
"Its a great, big sigh of relief," he said.
Geelong's streets came to life immediately after the win, with fans waving flags and scarfs and blowing car horns.
Geelong City Council will host a premiership parade on Wednesday.
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