Fish Creek Football Netball Club has received new funding through the TAC Club Rewards Program, recognising its efforts to promote road safety across the season, including a deeply personal tribute to a former player and umpire in Round 15.
Club president Travis Manne said the club annually participated in the TAC Round and took its road safety responsibilities seriously. This year, that commitment was included a special ceremony during the Round 15 clash against Tarwin, when players and supporters formed a guard of honour for the Bradbury family, whose son Lewis died in a road accident in 2022.
“The family carried the match football and presented it to the umpires. It was very moving to honour Lewis in that way, as he both played and umpired at our club,” Travis said.
First responders from Victoria Police, CFA, Ambulance Victoria and the medical profession also walked with the family as part of the tribute.
“We wanted to recognise that their lives are also greatly impacted by road trauma,” Travis said. “We finished with a minute’s silence and reinforced the message to look after each other and make smart choices when getting behind the wheel. We live in a small, well-connected community, so when accidents happen we all feel it.”
Funding received through the program will be directed towards uniforms, training and safety equipment. Fish Creek was among 261 clubs across Victoria to share in $700,000 awarded through the TAC Club Rewards Program, which is delivered by the TAC in partnership with AFL Victoria. Clubs were recognised for championing the message: “Be the Difference. Make the Right Choice. Slow Down on the Road.”
TAC CEO Tracey Slatter said road trauma affects communities across the state, which is why local clubs have such an important role to play. “Local clubs help create a culture where everyone takes responsibility for road safety,” she said.
