Viral Video Captures Victorian Liberals' Playful Team Spirit
A social media video featuring Victorian Liberal leader Jess Wilson and three former leaders has become the talk of Spring Street, marking what would have been the opening ceremony of the cancelled regional Commonwealth Games. The clip, set to the 1989 track "Pump Up the Jam," showcases MPs participating in creatively named events like the "running out of money relay" and "highest taxes and debt high jump."
Unexpected Cast and Production Details
The video includes surprising appearances from former leaders Matthew Guy, John Pesutto, and Brad Battin, alongside newer MPs like Rachel Westaway and more conservative members such as Bev McArthur and Renee Heath. MPs were invited via a group chat last Friday, told to bring activewear, and used props from Kmart for filming on Monday.
Wilson's small social media team wrote, filmed, and edited the video, following a successful formula from previous Instagram reels. The team aimed to mark the opening ceremony date while acknowledging voter fatigue over the Games cancellation, which cost the state nearly $600 million in 2023.
Political Reactions and Analysis
Communications professional David Imber praised the video, noting it could engage disenchanted voters despite some overly ambitious middle sections. He highlighted Wilson's courage in appearing in swimwear, drawing comparisons to political figures like Tony Abbott and Peter Malinauskas.
While Premier Jacinta Allan dismissed it as "petty politics," even Labor sources admitted its humor and credited Wilson's pool jump. However, they argued it lacks policy substance, with one senior source stating, "The entire message seems to be based on 'we're not them' and 'they are shit.'"
Strategic Implications for the Upcoming Election
Imber suggested the video demonstrates party unity and hunger to win November's state election, especially after years of internal divisions. The inclusion of diverse party members, from McArthur to Battin, sends a powerful message of cohesion.
With over 12 years in opposition, the Liberals may see an election victory within reach if they can counter the One Nation threat. This viral video indicates they might be ready to compete as a unified team to achieve that goal.
