AFL grand final: Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale cops raucous ‘FREEE-OOO’ chants at parade

With his grand final ban overturned and his new girlfriend at his side, Lachie Neale had a lot to smile about this morning.

Behind the journey of the Dockers’ “silent achiever” – the son of an Australian rules great who is universally respected throughout the cut-throat AFL industry.

The Wallabies' unbeaten start under new coach Les Kiss will be put to the test on Sunday when they take on world champions South Africa in Perth.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will make his first Test start on the wing as coach Les Kiss named six forwards on the bench to counter South Africa’s formidable reserves in Perth.

The Sydney Swans have opted against ruling the five players the club suspended ineligible for the club champion award - and two are among the frontunners.

Neil Erasmus rejected significant interest from rival clubs to sign a new deal with Fremantle and now has an AFL premiership in his sights.

Canberra are doing everything to stop the Origin star going to the open market on November 1, and will next week table a significantly upgraded offer for the back-rower.

Fremantle supporters outnumbered their Brisbane counterparts as fans of both clubs flocked to the MCG to see their teams complete their grand final preparation.

Kalyn Ponga was still working himself out as a person and footballer when first handed the Newcastle captaincy. This is how he became the leader of the NRL’s most unlikely resurrection.

The teams - and many of the supporters - are in town for Saturday’s grand final while trade talks continue in the background.

A former West Coast Eagles premiership player is being supported by the AFL community after his partner died two days after she gave birth to their daughter.