Adelaide will recognise South Australian farming families, who are enduring extreme drought conditions, by hosting them as special guests at its upcoming match against the Gold Coast Suns on Sunday, July 20.
The South Australian Government and Grain Producers SA, in partnership with Primary Producers SA, SA Dairyfarmers Association and Livestock SA, have teamed up with the Crows to deliver the Drought Support Match, with complimentary tickets being made available for farming families.
Much of South Australia is experiencing the worst drought conditions on record, with some regions recording the lowest rainfall since records began. As part of the match, the State Government will contribute $100,000 toward the Rural Business Support Relief Fund, providing direct assistance to drought-impacted primary producers. The Club’s Home Match Partner, Foodland, will also donate funds for Crows goals kicked on the day.
Adelaide players including defender Nick Murray, who hails from regional New South Wales and now runs his own sheep property at Hartley, will also lead two free footy clinics in the weeks before and after the match. The community clinics – one in Clare and another in Mannum – will be conducted by players and Club staff, who will also host barbecues and autograph signings.
Crows CEO Tim Silvers said the Club wanted to acknowledge the State’s farmers and regional communities who were battling tough conditions.
“We know so many families and communities have been hit incredibly hard by the drought and we hope an afternoon at the footy will provide some brief respite, much-needed fun and a sense of togetherness,” Silvers said.
“It’s the least we could do and especially given the support our Club is fortunate enough to receive from members and fans living in regional areas.”
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven MLC said that while the South Australian Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package continues to provide key support on the ground, events like this provide an opportunity for families to come together.
“It’s been an incredibly tough time for many in regional and rural areas, with the drought placing enormous pressure on families and communities across South Australia,” Minister Scriven said.
“While we know that only rain will truly break the drought, we remain committed to working together on practical support measures to complement those already announced.
“We are pleased to work together with the Crows on this fantastic initiative to show our support for farming families and let them know that South Australia recognises the challenges of drought and the tough times they are facing.”
South Australian primary producers have received an email with details on how to redeem their complimentary tickets to the match.
To register for the clinic in Clare, click here, or to register for the clinic in Mannum, click here.
