Maroon flag comes down after week on Sydney Harbour Bridge

After a week flying high on the Sydney Harbour Bridge following Queensland’s State of Origin whitewash, the Maroon flag will be taken down this morning.

Premier Anna Bligh said the Maroon flag had flown proudly over Sydney in recognition of Queensland’s 2010 State of Origin win and first Origin clean sweep in 15 years.

“I’m sure there are a few Sydney-siders who’ve been avoiding the bridge since the Maroon flag was hoisted onto the landmark last Monday morning,” Ms Bligh said.

“This year marked the first time a Maroon flag has flown over Sydney, serving as an even greater reminder of Queensland’s Origin dominance.

“The Queensland state flag is very hard to distinguish from the New South Wales state flag at such a great height.

“But having the Maroon flag up there on the bridge left no one in any doubt,” Ms Bligh said.

“Flying the Maroon flag is part of a revived annual bet with NSW Premier Kristina Keneally which saw Queensland dominate the skies of Sydney for a week.

“Queensland taking a clean sweep of the Origin series was a great way to start the Maroon flag tradition.

“And I want to warn the people of Sydney and NSW that they’re in for another week of pain next year as I fully expect the dominant Maroons to win another series.

“As Premier of the losing state, Kristina is now organising a breast cancer fundraiser to benefit charities in both states.”

Media Contact: 3224 4500