Clubs in the Goulburn Valley, Murray, Kyabram District and Picola District leagues will join over 1000 of their counterparts across Victoria to help promote road safety and honour those killed on the state’s roads this weekend.
A joint effort between the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, AFL Victoria and state government, 2022 marks the third annual Road Safety Round.
To mark the occasion coaches, players and supporters from football and netball clubs in the region will don a blue armband to show their commitment to eliminating death and serious injury on our roads.
Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said it was fantastic to see so many local sporting clubs get behind the cause.
“Local football and netball clubs are at the heart of their communities and play a significant role in influencing attitudes and behaviours on our roads — especially when it comes to their younger players and members,” Dimopolous said.
“Tragically, most football and netball clubs across Victoria will have felt the impact of road trauma first hand.
“This Road Safety Round is an opportunity to remember those we have lost and educate the community on the importance of road safety.”
AFL Victoria chief executive Ben Kavenagh echoed this sentiment and highlighted the importance of the road safety message for clubs in regional areas.
“Across the state, we know that our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters are spending a huge amount of time driving to and from training and matches, often at night, in the wet, on country roads or after a long day at work,” Kavenagh said.
“Road safety is something that is so acutely relevant to everyone in community football and netball.”
Clubs can extend their support and involvement in the TAC Road Safety Round, with all AFL Victoria-affiliated clubs given the opportunity to take part and earn up to $10,000 in funding by promoting road safety to their community as part of the TAC Club Rewards Program.