Fonterra champions country sport in Gippsland Victoria
Country sport is more than just a game; it's a vital thread that weaves communities together.
Over the past year, Fonterra Oceania has been a pillar of support for 41 community sports clubs across Victoria and Tasmania, investing in the growth and development of local sports in regional communities.
Eleven of these sporting clubs, have been based across Gippsland, Victoria, representing a diverse range of sports including football, netball, cricket, archery, bowls, tennis, and golf. Fonterra Oceania’s donations were used to help clubs invest in new equipment and facilities or purchase uniforms.
Trafalgar Football Netball Club Vice-President, Tim Ryan (left), Fonterra Darnum Site Manager, Leigh Gourley (second left) and Fonterra Farm Source Regional Manager, Gippsland, Peter Dunstan (far right) pictured with members of the Trafalgar Girls Netball team.
Fonterra Farm Source Regional Manager for Gippsland, Peter Dunstan highlighted the vital role that sport plays in the regional communities where Fonterra’s Australian farmers and employees call home.
“Grass roots country sporting clubs serve as the heartbeat of regional Australia, and we’re proud to support a number of them across the Gippsland region,” Peter said.
“These clubs are more than just a place for sport. They’re hubs within rural communities where people come together to celebrate a strong, social connection and community spirit,” he added.
One of the Gippsland sporting clubs to receive Fonterra’s support this year was the Trafalgar Football and Netball Club. With a $5000 donation as part of a five-year sponsorship, they purchased new uniforms for the women’s netball teams.
“Receiving Fonterra’s donation for new uniforms has been a game-changer for our netball teams. It’s more than just attire; they symbolise unity, pride, and the spirit of our team and our town,” said Trafalgar Football Netball Club President, Brett Tonkin.
“When people see our bright red uniforms on the court, it’s an immediate connection to the Trafalgar Football Netball Club and the proud people behind it,” he added.
"Receiving Fonterra’s donation for new uniforms has been a game-changer for our netball teams. It’s more than just attire; they symbolise unity, pride, and the spirit of our team and our town."
Brett said Fonterra’s support was more than just financial assistance.
"Through Fonterra’s contributions, they’re demonstrating the positive impact that local businesses can have on sports in the region, and we’re grateful to have them as a partner of our club,” he said.
Peter Dunstan said Fonterra’s support was driven by a desire to give back to the communities in more ways than one.
“Getting behind a sports club means we’re reaching a significant amount of people in our local community. Whether it’s a player who takes to the field or court, a volunteer running the canteen, or a passionate spectator – our contributions help to keep local Gippsland sport and the wellbeing of communities strong,” he said.
In Australia, Fonterra focusses its community support around three goals. This is where it believes it can have the greatest impact:
- Putting quality nutrition in the hands of those who need it the most.
- Protecting and regenerating the environment.
- Helping to keep its rural community strong.
If you know of a community group or initiative in need of support, please get in contact at inourcommunityaustralia@fonterra.com. Together, we can continue to strengthen our communities and make a difference.