All Bellarine Football Netball League clubs have been thrown a $15,000 lifeline by Buckley’s Entertainment Centre.
The long-time AFL Barwon partner has donated $15,000 to all BFNL, Geelong Football Netball League and Geelong District Football Netball League clubs and AFL Barwon umpires.
The cash injection from Breakwater-based Buckley’s comes at a critical time as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to delay the start of the football and netball seasons.
Ocean Grove FNC president Peter Smith said the club was grateful for the donation.
“As yet our committee has not had the opportunity to discuss how best to use Buckley’s donation, but given the current challenges faced in our community, investing in mental health and wellbeing support services may well be one area we focus on,” he said.
“All community football and netball clubs are dealing with the challenges that the COVID-19 virus presents.
“From a financial viewpoint, a reduced or cancelled season will lead to a significant reduction in revenue so Buckley’s contribution eases the short term pressure on our finances and helps us prepare the club for a sustainable future.”
Barwon Heads FNC president Tim Goddard said the donation was “generous” and “more than helpful”.
“Like most clubs I imagine income has reduced to a trickle and whilst the income itself is down, the clubs feels for its players, members, sponsors, volunteers and supporters who have been affected,” he said.
“When the Covid cloud lifts and we are able to begin in some capacity I am sure that everyone will reunite and reignite their passion for local sport.
“We hope we can get back to what we love doing at some stage this season as it will be a long winter without watching our teams do their best week in and week out.
“We can’t wait for our first home game – be it this year or next – when we get to unfurl our 2019 premiership flag in front of a large home crowd.”
Drysdale FNC president David Walder also welcomed the support.
“Buckley’s have been a long term supporter of local football, and their contribution in this climate is remarkable,” he said.
“Our players and supporters will continue to support Buckley’s at every opportunity.
“This donation will go towards keeping the club afloat in these uncertain times, and to ensure we’re ready for action when the starter’s gun goes off.”
Queenscliff FNC president Rowan Martin also said his club was “extremely delighted” for the “very generous disbursement from Buckley’s”.
“For the QFNC, this money will assist us to provide better equipment and facilities for all of our players and supporters,” he said.
“Our club is taking advantage of the delayed start to the season to complete a few outstanding jobs that will improve a few areas and this money will now allow us to advance those projects a little earlier.”
