The local community of Halls Gap in the Grampians National Park has spent the past six months rebuilding from devastating bushfires that destroyed much of the community, though it didn't dull their spirit.
Less than six months on from some of the largest bushfires in decades, the Halls Gap community, with a population of less than 500 people, is proud to be offering a primary school football program at the local school, thanks to the support of AFL Victoria.
The program began on Monday 26 May, with fourteen registered participants for the first session. The program will run weekly, afterschool on Mondays (except for public and school holidays), with the final session on July 21.
Registrations are still open for $25 per student, with AFL Victoria subsidising the remaining cost for each participant.
Anyone from the age of five to 12 years old that attends Halls Gap Primary School is eligible to register, with new registrations encouraged.
CLICK HERE TO TO REGISTER VIA PLAYHQ.
Halls Gap Primary School Acting Principal Samantha Stoffel extended a heartfelt thank you to AFL Victoria for facilitating the Auskick program for the students.
“After more than 100 days of fire activity in the Grampians and the significant disruption and economic impact it has had on our local community, it has been a welcome relief to see our students out on the oval, smiling, running, and kicking a footy,” Stoffel said.
“The opportunity to take part in Auskick has not only provided a healthy and active outlet for our students, but it has also brought some much-needed joy and a sense of normality back to school life.”
“After months of uncertainty and challenge, it’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of community, connection, and fun.”
David Kennedy, the AFL Victoria Participation Coordinator in the region reached out to the school and offered a subsidised program to show AFL Victoria’s support for the local community in a time of need.
"The Halls Gap community has been severely impacted by these bushfires and we wanted to show our support to the families and local businesses," Kennedy said.
"Whilst rebuilding from bushfires and the lost tourism revenue takes time; we hope that this contribution to support an afterschool footy program will help to bring joy to these kids and families after a devastating event. It's fantastic to see 14 registrations already and we hope to see more in the coming weeks."
Head of AFL Victoria, Greg Madigan, said:
“The town of Halls Gap has shown tremendous resilience and community spirit since the devastating bushfires hit over the summer months,” Madigan said.
“Football clubs and programs can offer a sense of connection and community for families who are struggling in times like these, and this afterschool program is a simple thing that can give the kids something to look forward to each week.”