The Tarwin Sharks will host a WorkSafe Country Club Week ahead of their clash with Thorpdale on Saturday. Image: Tarwin FNC
South Gippsland footy takes the spotlight this weekend as Tarwin hosts Thorpdale in the third WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country Club Series match of 2026.
Set against the backdrop of the Tarwin River, the Round 10 Mid Gippsland league clash at Tarwin Lower Recreation Reserve will bring the local community together while highlighting the role country clubs play in regional life.
Delivered in partnership with WorkSafe Victoria, the Country Club Series focuses on supporting regional communities – particularly in the big dairy and cattle areas of Tarwin – by strengthening connections and sharing practical safety messages.
As a host club, Tarwin will receive more than $15,000 in value through the program, including funding, promotional support and new equipment such as footballs, netballs and goal post padding.
Head of AFL Victoria, Greg Madigan, said the Series continues to play an important role across regional Victoria.
“Country football clubs like the Tarwin Sharks are central to their communities, providing connection, routine and support,” Madigan said.
“This program is about recognising that impact while ensuring clubs have the backing they need to remain strong.”
WorkSafe Ambassador and former AFL player, Tom Boyd, said the Series provides a unique opportunity to engage with local communities.
“You can see how much these clubs mean to people in towns like Tarwin,” Boyd said.
“It’s a great way to support those communities while also promoting important safety conversations.”
The contest is expected to draw strong local interest, with both sides sitting just inside the top eight with four wins and four losses, with Tarwin just ahead of on Thorpdale percentage.
The 2026 Series also marks 25 years of partnership between WorkSafe Victoria and AFL Victoria, recognising the vital role country football clubs play as hubs for connection, wellbeing and community leadership.
Match centre available on PlayHQ, please click here.
For more information on the WorkSafe Country Club Series, please visit play.afl/victoria/community-programs/worksafe-afl-victoria-country.
Tarwin v Thorpdale (Senior Men)
Date: Saturday 20 June
Time: 2:20pm
Location: Tarwin Lower Recreation Reserve