The finish was tighter than Mark Colegrave’s Levi Strauss and Co denims. At 46yrs young, and 29 years since his debut season, Justin “Banger” Harvey has claimed his second Bailey Medal as Hobart’s best and fairest, for season ‘24.With the votes all square between he and dashing defender Sam Cosgrove with a round to go, Banger was the muddiest and most valuable player in the final round match against Cygnet. Cosgrove went down with a damaged fetlock and the affable veteran claimed the coveted award. Smooth moving Elliott Shaw, from a mere 8 games, finished in 3rd place with 79 votes, 1 vote behind Cosgrove and 3 from Harvey.
In what has been a most trying time in season ‘24, it was fitting that the hardest working player on the roster took home the Bailey Medal. Life Member Graeme Bailey was in the house to hang the brass from the veterans beating chest.
In his acceptance speech, Harvey spoke of a love for his Tigers which began when watching Hobart in a final v Glenorchy in 1986. 8 seasons later at 17 he made his senior debut, alongside outgoing coach, the younger Dan Gray.
Harvey continues to strive for excellence, his passion for the football club and appetite for growth unmatched. The great 28 is suiting up for season ‘25, yet no one is surprised.
The Harvey name lives on as strongly as ever at the TCA, brothers Matt and Trent Harvey members of the ‘99 premiership remain staunch supporters. Mother Sue is ever present at home games still and late father Brian remembered as a selfless giver to our great club over many years.
Congratulations Banger, a heart and soul Tiger so deserved of all the accolades of an enduring and humble career.