Cathy Freeman rings the legacy bell

Cathy Freeman, the renowned Aboriginal athlete and former Olympic gold medalist, rang the legacy bell at South Sydney Rabbitohs' training ground on Thursday during Indigenous Round of the National Rugby League season. The ceremony took place ahead of the club's match against the Parramatta Eels at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. Freeman, who is a member of the South Sydney Rabbitohs' foundation and a prominent advocate for Indigenous representation in sport, performed the symbolic act to honor the club's history and its commitment to recognizing the contributions of Indigenous Australians. The event occurred on Thursday, August 8, 2026, just hours before the Rabbitohs faced their opponents. Freeman was joined by club officials, players, and members of the local Indigenous community. The legacy bell, which has been used in previous Indigenous Round ceremonies, symbolizes the ongoing relationship between the club and the broader Indigenous population. It is traditionally rung to acknowledge past achievements and to inspire future generations. Freeman's participation marked her return to the club after several years away from active involvement in rugby league. South Sydney Rabbitohs have long been associated with Indigenous culture, having fielded some of the most iconic Indigenous players in the game's history. Players such as Arthur Beetson, Greg Inglis, and Sam Burgess have all made significant contributions to both the club and the sport. This year's Indigenous Round theme focused on "honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future," a message that resonated strongly with Freeman as she prepared to ring the bell. Freeman, who won gold in the 400 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, has been a vocal supporter of Indigenous rights and reconciliation efforts in Australia. Her presence at the ceremony underscored the importance of acknowledging the deep ties between the club and Indigenous communities. Club captain Cody Walker expressed his gratitude for Freeman's involvement, stating that her actions served as a powerful reminder of the values the Rabbitohs strive to uphold. The ceremony included speeches from Indigenous elders and representatives, who spoke about the significance of the bell and its role in connecting the past with the present. A traditional welcome dance was performed before Freeman took to the stage. She delivered a heartfelt address, reflecting on her own journey as an Indigenous athlete and the challenges still facing the community. Her remarks were met with sustained applause from the gathered crowd. Following the ringing of the bell, Freeman participated in a Q&A session with media and fans, addressing questions about her current work in promoting Indigenous education and health initiatives. She emphasized the need for continued support and investment in Indigenous communities, particularly in areas affected by systemic disadvantage. Freeman also praised the Rabbitohs for their ongoing commitment to inclusivity and cultural respect. The event concluded with a team photo featuring Freeman alongside the Rabbitohs players and staff. The image will be featured prominently in the club's promotional materials for the remainder of the season. As the team prepared for their match against the Eels, Freeman remained on-site to offer encouragement and support to the players. The Rabbitohs went on to win the game, with Freeman watching from the stands, a silent witness to another chapter in the club's storied history.