Premiers Fish Creek among others funded to promote road safety

ONE of the most successful clubs in country football, the Fish Creek Football Netball Club, has had another victory, this time in the offseason.

After meeting and beating the challenges thrown up in 2026 football season, by winning the Mid-Gippsland Premiership, over arch-rivals Foster no less, they’ve received a small share of the State Government’s $700,000 TAC Club Rewards Program.

But it all helps.

Meanwhile, Korumburra-Bena is one of just seven clubs across the state to receive the maximum grant of $10,000, to help run a promotional event through the year next year, highlighting the road safety message to fans and the visiting club on the day.

Other locals getting a share too, among the 261 included in the program, are Kilcunda-Bass and Poowong.

The TAC Club Rewards Program recognises efforts to encourage safer driving among players, volunteers, members and supporters.

The seven clubs achieving the program’s highest level of recognition ($10,000 grant) are as follows: Surrey Park, Nunawading, Mordialloc, Korumburra Bena, Lake Wendouree, Learmonth and South Warrnambool.

They’ve all agreed to champion the 2027 message: “Be the Difference. Make the Right Choice. Slow Down on the Road”.

The money awarded will go back into the clubs; funding equipment, facilities and community programs. The program is delivered by the TAC in partnership with AFL Victoria.

The Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer made the grants’ announcement.

“Grassroots football and netball clubs are trusted voices in their communities, making them powerful advocates for safer behaviour on our roads,” he said.

Minister for WorkSafe and TAC Steve Dimopoulos supported the initiative.

“This funding recognises clubs that have gone above and beyond to promote road safety, helping deliver important messages that can influence behaviour and prevent road trauma.”

Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter stressed the importance of the road safety message.

“Road trauma impacts communities across Victoria, which is why local clubs have such an important role to play in helping create a culture where everyone takes responsibility for road safety

Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan welcomed the support.

“Hundreds of clubs across Victoria have shown a genuine commitment to creating a culture of safer road use over the course of the entire season, and TAC Club Rewards funding is a terrific boost for those communities.”

Club Recipients in 2027:

* Bass Coast Breakers and Dalyston Football Club: $6500

* Fish Creek Football Netball Club Inc $3250

* Kilcunda Bass Football Netball Club $2500

* Korumburra Bena Football Netball Club Inc $10,000

* Lang Lang Cannons JFC $1850

* Poowong Football Netball Club $3250