Crows to host Drought Support Match

Next weekend’s AFL match between the Adelaide Crows and the Gold Coast Suns has been dedicated to drought-affected farmers and their families.

The state government and Grain Producers SA have partnered with the Adelaide Football Club, Primary Producers SA, Livestock SA and the SA Dairyfarmers' Association to deliver the Drought Support Match at Adelaide Oval on July 20.

Complimentary tickets have been made available for drought-affected primary producers and their families to attend the match. Eligible producers have been sent an email with details on how to secure their seats at the Crows vs Suns match.

The state government will contribute $100,000 on game day to top up Rural Business Support's Relief Fund – which has been providing up to $1500 for farmers and rural business owners to cover expenses such as utilities, medical expenses, groceries, school related costs and fuel.

The Club’s Home Match Partner, Foodland, will also donate funds for Crows goals kicked on the day.

GPSA Chair John Gladigau said the match presents a vital opportunity to put the reality of the drought in front of urban audiences.

“This is a chance to take the message of this drought right into the heart of Adelaide and ask city-based South Australians and businesses to rally around our farmers,” Mr Gladigau said.

“We’re grateful to the Adelaide Football Club and the State Government for backing this initiative – and we hope it helps raise not just money, but real understanding of what farming families are going through.

“We welcome the $100,000 donation to the Rural Business Support Relief Fund from the State Government as part of the Drought Support Match and contributions from the Adelaide Crows and Foodland.”

As part of the initiative, Adelaide Crows defender Nick Murray – who runs a sheep property at Hartley – will join other players and Club staff to deliver two free footy clinics for regional kids, in Clare and Mannum, in the lead-up to and following the match. The community clinics will include barbecues and autograph sessions.

“We know a football game can’t break the drought, but what it can do is bring people together and raise real money for those who need it,” Mr Gladigau said.

“The money raised through this match will go directly to the Rural Business Support Relief Fund, which is helping drought affected farmers in crisis.

“At the same time, GPSA has met with the Premier and Minister for Primary Industries and continues to advocate for immediate financial relief for growers – including no/low-interest loans and council rate rebates.”

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.”