Through a program initiated by the TAC and Victorian government, clubs held seminars and drove conversations around safe behaviours on the road, specifically on the dangers of speeding.
Following the weeks of promotion, teams then took part in the TAC’s Road Safety Round, donning a blue arm band in round 15 to further spread the message.
Those involved have been rewarded by the Victorian government and TAC, in partnership with AFL Victoria, with 44 per cent of winners from regional Victoria where the risk of serious road trauma is highest.
Of the 316 successful applicants, and 139 country football outfits, seven Goulburn Valley clubs were provided with a grant up to $10,000 for their contribution to the campaign.
Three Shepparton sides have won grant funds - the Goulburn Valley League’s Shepparton and Shepparton Swans, and the Kyabram District League’s Shepparton East - while Nagambie, Rushworth and Violet Town are other clubs from the KDL that have been provided the reward.
Murray Football League’s Rumbalara has also been issued money for its promotion of the initiative.
The successful sides can use the money for a variety of options, including providing more education programs, club transport initiatives, and new equipment and uniforms.
Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan stated the promotion in regional areas was vital and why the efforts made by country clubs were crucial.
“Grassroots football clubs are often the heart of local communities, meaning they are a great platform to promote behaviour change and awareness,” Madigan said.
“Particularly for our regional communities, footballers cover hundreds of kilometres on the road each season, travelling to and from games and training, so road safety needs to be front of mind for us all.
“Throughout this football season, many of our clubs have demonstrated a significant commitment to promoting road safety and education, and on behalf of AFL Victoria I am thrilled to see those clubs rewarded for their efforts through the TAC Club Rewards Program.”
